For years, Dr. Pepper’s “Fansville” campaign has portrayed a fictional world where nothing matters beyond game day, poking fun at the die-hard loyalty of sports fans. But beneath the humor lies a darker truth—the word “fan” comes from “fanatic”, and as we’ve seen in films like The Fan (1996) and Big Fan (2009), there’s a fine line between devotion and dangerous obsession. In Bean McKee’s noir-styled thriller Fanboy, we’re reminded that sometimes, it’s not the loudest or most visible supporters who are the most extreme—it’s the ones lurking in the background, quietly unraveling.
At the heart of the story is Allen, a man whose awkwardness is an understatement. He exhibits all the anti-social traits of a modern-day Norman Bates, struggling with attachment issues, delusions, and a desperate need for connection. While he may seem harmless at times, there’s a volatile unpredictability to him, shifting between childlike tantrums and chilling moments of barely contained rage. One of the recurring themes at this year’s Slamdance is the fragility of the mind, and Fanboy taps into that, evoking Taxi Driver vibes with its slow-burning, tension-filled unraveling. The film’s noir-styled aesthetic adds to its intrigue, providing a stark contrast to the chaotic energy of college football fandom.
For those who don’t get it, they never will—the passion that sports, like music, can inspire is so powerful that it borders on cult-like behavior, preying on vulnerable minds. This phenomenon extends beyond just college football, manifesting in pro wrestling, cosplay, and countless other fan-driven subcultures. What seems harmless—fantasy leagues, team rivalries, tailgates—can become something far more destructive when mixed with isolation, delusion, and a lack of grounding influences. In the wrong circumstances, the line between fandom and fanaticism blurs, and Fanboy serves as a chilling reminder of just how easy it is to lose yourself in the process.
Rating: 3/5
Director: Bean Mckee
Screenwriter: Bean Mckee
Producer: Stephen Mlinarcik , Zulfa Rizqiya , Adnan Siddique
Cast: Jon Washington , Kevin Hacher , Amanda Loch , Cody Schmid , Patrick Matanle , Mike Jacobs , Stephen Riddle , Trent Rowland
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