About Ingrid Goes West

'Ingrid Goes West' is a 2017 American black comedy-drama film directed by Matt Spicer. The film primarily explores the themes of obsession, loneliness, and social media influence in contemporary society. The film follows Ingrid Thorburn, a mentally unstable woman, who becomes obsessed with a social media influencer and moves to Los Angeles to get closer to her life.

Making/Production

Director Matt Spicer and co-writer David Branson Smith were inspired to write 'Ingrid Goes West' after observing the impact and influence of social media in contemporary society. Located in Los Angeles, the film offers a scathing critique on the artificiality and ostentation often portrayed on social media platforms.

Actors

• Aubrey Plaza: Plays the role of Ingrid Thorburn, a mentally unstable woman who becomes obsessed with a social media influencer. Plaza perfectly portrays the desperation and loneliness of her character which audience connect deeply.
• Elizabeth Olsen: Plays the role of Taylor Sloane, a famous social media influencer who becomes the object of Ingrid's obsession. Olsen flawlessly embodies the superficial and narcissistic lifestyle of her character.
• O'Shea Jackson Jr.: Plays the role of Dan Pinto, Ingrid's landlord and only real friend. Jackson Jr. provides much-needed stability and warmth to the often chaotic and cold LA backdrop.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Despite its dark themes and dramatic elements, the film was categorized as a comedy rather than a drama.
• The social media posts shown in the movie were all made for real, by the actors themselves.
• The film was only shot in 29 days.

Awards

'Ingrid Goes West' won the Waldo Salt Screenwriting Award at the 2017 Sundance Film Festival. Aubrey Plaza was also nominated for the Gotham Independent Film Award for Best Actress.

Quotes

• "The sun is shining, the birds are twittering." - Ingrid Thorburn
• "LA is the best. I'm going to be here forever..." - Taylor Sloane
• "You don't even know this person." - Dan Pinto

Music, Soundtrack

• "Obsession" by Animotion
• "All My Life" by K-Ci & JoJo
• "Buzzcut Season" by Lorde