Ultra-Violent Horror Series On Prime Video Showcases Dangerous Modern Trend
If you’ve spent any time on the internet in the last few years, you’re likely aware of so-called “Stan culture,” which sees fans of a certain celebrity, band, or television series devolving into something of an angry mob when confronted with any criticism. One of the most absurd examples of this trend occurred at the start of 2024, when fans of rapper Nicki Minaj threatened to vandalize the grave site of Megan Thee Stallion’s deceased mother due to the two rappers engaging in a public feud. One Amazon Prime Video original series, titled Swarm, perfectly tackles this bizarre subject matter, with some ultra-violent twists and turns along the way.
A Profound Perspective On Parasocial Relationships
Swarm is a surrealist horror thriller created and developed for streaming by legendary rapper, comedian, actor, and all-around talent Donald Glover, in partnership with Janine Nabers. Nabers previously collaborated with Glover as a writer-producer on his FX series Atlanta, following her success on shows such as Dietland and HBO’s Watchmen. Though Swarm lasted for only 7 brief 30 minute long episodes, the show has left a lasting impact on viewers due to its shocking violence and poignant dissection of parasocial relationships.
Dre’s Disproportionate Delusions
The narrative of Swarm centers on Dominique Fishback’s Andrea “Dre” Greene as she allows her complete obsession with a chart-topping pop singer to consume all aspects of her life. In her youth, she and her long-time best friend Marissa were avid fans of the singer, Ni’Jah, and made it a point to attend every concert, purchase every merchandise item, and listen to every single album, EP, and leak that the singer would release.
After Marissa suffers a terrifying fate in the pilot episode of the series, Dre turns to Ni’Jah’s music to cope, and soon becomes enraged at anyone who dares to disrespect the singer in any way.
Stan Culture Gone Too Far
Before long, Dre embarks upon a nationwide revenge tour, attempting to get close to Ni’Jah while systemically attacking and brutally killing people who talk smack about the singer on social media. I won’t give away too much of Swarm‘s plot here, as this is only the beginning of the off-the-walls mini-series. Suffice it to say, Swarm offers a worst-case-scenario look into how Stan culture can warp the minds of youths across the country and eventually lead to genuine violence.
Behind-The-Scenes Talent Cannot Be Overstated
Swarm is loaded to the brim with incredible talent both on and off the camera, making the hidden gem incredibly surprising for new fans who may not have heard of the show before. In addition to Donald Glover and Janine Nabers, the series touts writing credits from Atlanta producers Ibra Ake and Stephen Glover, as well as She-Hulk: Attorney At Law writer Kara Brown.
It may also come as a shock to learn that Malia Obama, daughter of former U.S. President Barack Obama was a staff writer on the program, and penned one of the most truly insane episodes in the entire series.
Streaming Swarm On Amazon Prime Video
GFR SCORE
Despite its disturbing subject matter, graphic violence, and semi-underground release, Swarm managed to be a hit with critics and general audiences alike, resulting in an 87 percent certified fresh critic score on Rotten Tomatoes. Today, the series has become something of a cult classic, though it absolutely deserves to have more eyes on it. If you’re interested in watching Swarm today, be sure to stream the series on Amazon Prime Video.
