In Prime Video’s SWARM, created by Janine Nabers and Donald Glover, Dre (Dominique Fishback), is on a quest to see her absolute favorite pop star, Ni’Jah (Nirine S. Brown). Ni’Jah has a rabid fanbase called ‘The Swarm’ (sound familiar) and Dre can count herself among the most devoted. Her life takes a dramatic turn as her obsession, which has bifurcated between Ni’Jah and vicious rumors about her foster sister, Marissa, or Ris, (Chloe Bailey) her foster sister, reaches a fatalistic crescendo. Dre becomes the ultimate defender of both Ni’Jah’s reputation and Ris’ legacy, cutting a bloody swath across the country in a demonstration of loyalty and retribution.
The SXSW 2023 Swarm Activation held at the converted Hotel Austin focused on Dre’s car and the convenience store Dre and Ris frequent. Both experiences remind you that this is not simply a dramatic series focusing on the lives of fans and the popstars they love, but the deeply psychotic lengths some people will go through to prove their ‘love’. It’s a weird gatekeeping for sure, but one rooted in facts as researched by co-creator, Donald Glover.
Swarm is shocking, visceral, and as deeply embedded in horror as you can get.
Giveaways included Swarm Cash for ‘buying’ merchandise, like hats, screen-printed t-shirts, and snacks from the convenience store.
There was a lot of blood to walk through and track around, and it doesn’t get more immersive than that!
To be sure, Swarm isn’t for everyone, but it will resonate with anyone who has followed their idols from city to city and across internet forums, mining for the most recent gossip, rumors, and insight.
Swarm debuts on Prime Video on March 17, 2023, and it is promised to be a limited 7-episode run. There will be no Season 2 so soak it all up while you can.
Feature Author
Movie Reelist Contributor: MontiLee Stormer
