Unfriended

Unfriended (2014) is a groundbreaking supernatural horror film that redefined how stories can be told on screen. Directed by Levan Gabriadze and written by Nelson Greaves, the film unfolds entirely on a teenager's computer screen, presenting a real-time, claustrophobic look into the dark consequences of cyberbullying and digital exposure.

The story follows high school student Blaire Lily and her group of friends during a late-night Skype call. An anonymous user joins their chat and soon reveals themselves to be linked to Laura Barns, a former classmate who died by suicide after a humiliating video of her was shared online. As the night progresses, the group is forced to confront their secrets, betrayals, and guilt. One by one, the teens are picked off by a supernatural force that punishes them for their roles in Laura’s death.

The film uses its “screenlife” format to build tension and realism, effectively capturing the way modern life plays out through text messages, video chats, social media, and search engines. Rather than traditional jump scares, the horror lies in the slow unraveling of truth and the characters’ inability to escape the digital world they've become so reliant on. With its modest budget and innovative approach, Unfriended became both a commercial success and a cult favorite, especially among younger viewers who could relate to its themes of online shaming and digital vulnerability.

A fictional continuation of the story might explore how the haunting evolves with advancing technology. In a possible future sequel—imaginatively titled Unfriended: Resurrection—the ghost of Laura Barns could move beyond Skype, infiltrating smart devices, AI chatbots, and even deepfake videos. Victims could be terrorized not just through messages or video calls, but through manipulated media, voice assistants, and fake online identities. The supernatural element could exploit the rise of misinformation, data leaks, and smart home technology to terrifying effect.

As technology becomes more immersive and invasive, the core message of Unfriended remains disturbingly relevant. The film taps into a fear that grows stronger with time: that our worst moments, once uploaded, never truly disappear—and that someone, or something, may be watching from behind the screen.