Is ‘Spree’ Based on a True Story?
The 2020 thriller film "Spree" has been generating buzz among horror fans and true crime enthusiasts alike, with many wondering if the movie’s gruesome and unconventional plot is based on a real-life event or inspiration. In this article, we’ll delve into the facts and explore the potential connections between the film and real-life events.
For those who haven’t seen the movie, "Spree" tells the story of Kurt Kunkle, a struggling delivery driver who becomes increasingly disillusioned with his mundane life and decides to take a more… unconventional approach to his work. As Kurt’s frustrations mount, he begins to use his delivery job as a means to fund a twisted game of cat and mouse, targeting his passengers and manipulating them into making life-or-death decisions.
So, is "Spree" based on a true story? The short answer is no, not directly. However, the film’s writer and director, Eugene Kotlyarenko, has drawn inspiration from various real-life events and true crime stories.
In an interview with Bloody Disgusting, Kotlyarenko revealed that he was influenced by the case of serial killer and cannibal Jeffrey Dahmer, who murdered and consumed the bodies of numerous men and boys in the 1970s and 1980s. While Kurt Kunkle is not a direct representation of Dahmer, the themes of loneliness, isolation, and the blurring of boundaries between reality and fantasy are all present in the film.
Another possible inspiration for "Spree" is the concept of "catfishing," which has become a popular topic in true crime documentaries and media. In the film, Kurt uses social media and dating apps to manipulate his victims, creating false profiles and luring them into his trap. This tactic is reminiscent of several real-life catfishing cases, including the infamous "Tinder Swindler" scandal, in which a man used dating apps to scam and manipulate multiple women.
Furthermore, Kotlyarenko has also mentioned that he drew inspiration from the world of gig economy and the struggles faced by delivery workers, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Kurt’s character is a commentary on the dehumanizing effects of modern worklife, where individuals are treated as mere commodities rather than human beings.
While "Spree" may not be based on a single, specific true story, it’s clear that the film’s writer and director have drawn inspiration from various real-life events and themes. The movie’s thought-provoking exploration of loneliness, manipulation, and the darker aspects of human nature has resonated with audiences and critics alike, cementing its place as a standout in the thriller genre.
In conclusion, while "Spree" may not be based on a true story in the classical sense, it’s undeniable that the film has been influenced by real-life events and themes. By combining these elements with a dash of creative license, the filmmakers have crafted a thrilling and unsettling movie that will leave viewers questioning the nature of reality and the darkest corners of the human psyche.