In a digital age saturated with clout-chasing and online validation, Celebrity finds something rare: sincerity. Directed by Conner Farias, this sharply edited and emotionally resonant short film turns the lens inward on internet fame, exploring how the pursuit of virality can distort real relationships, until something unexpected brings them back into focus.
The story follows Cameron Anderson, a cocky YouTube prankster played with surprising depth by David Rios. While Rios may be best known for his comedic chops on TikTok, here he proves his range with a performance that deftly balances arrogance, vulnerability, and transformation. When Cameron’s followers start calling him out for his increasingly mean-spirited content, he scrambles for a new angle—and lands on exploiting his own father under the guise of a "school project."
Enter Dave McClain as Cliff Anderson, Cameron’s dad. McClain brings warmth and gravity to the role, embodying a father who is a little awkward, a little out of step with his son’s world, but full of heart. The chemistry between the two actors gives the film its emotional core. What starts as a setup for yet another cruel prank shifts gears when Cliff, desperate to connect, throws himself wholeheartedly into Cameron’s new idea. What follows—shared meals, rounds of golf, and simple moments of bonding—catches both the viewer and Cameron off guard.
The influence of projects like Zach Stone Is Gonna Be Famous and various Conner O’Malley films is clear, but Celebrity goes its own way by delivering a payoff that’s as touching as it is earned. Just when you're bracing for the punchline, the film reveals a tribute that is tender and redemptive. It’s not just about an influencer learning a lesson—it’s about a son seeing his father clearly for the first time.
Conner’s editing deserves special mention, he crafted a kinetic visual style that keeps the momentum alive without overwhelming the narrative. Smart transitions and intuitive pacing make the film feel polished and professional from start to finish. Elijah Monks’ cinematography and Abby German’s production design ground the film visually, while JJ MacDonald’s lighting work enhances its tone shifts beautifully.
Celebrity is a smart, satirical, and ultimately heartfelt look at what we lose when we prioritize likes over love, and what we might regain when we stop performing and start paying attention. It’s a short film with staying power and a testament to the talent behind Some Like It Studios.
Celebrity is funny, sharp, and unexpectedly moving—a short film that sticks with you. Farias and his team have crafted something special: a modern satire that doesn’t just poke fun at online culture, but digs deeper to find something real underneath the algorithm—highly recommended.
Jessie Hobson