Nerve

When you look at crazes like “planking” and the hysteria of Pokemon Go, it’s not hard to accept the premise behind Nerve, the new internet based thriller from directors Ariel Schulman and Henry Joost.

“Nerve” is a social game app in which participants are either Watchers or Players. Players are given challenges by Watchers – anything from eating dog food to dangling from a crane – for which the incentive is instant cash and accumulation of fans (Watchers). Winners progress to the finals through a process of elimination (bail or fail).

It has the potential to be an adrenalin-pumping, psychological suspense with insightful social commentary. Instead it feels more like a sentimental teen flick trying hard to be edgy. Given the plot, it is surprisingly slow moving. The “dares” given to Players are not very imaginative. The dialogue and relationships push credibility more than the action does.

The soundtrack is a diverse mix of pop tunes and the New York City backdrop and computer graphic imitations make it visually interesting – although it is shamelessly peppered with product placement.

Overall Nerve is a fail. (RB)

★★1/2

BY RITA BRATOVICH