Title: 'Basic' Review: A Relatable Comedy About the Dangers of Cyberstalking Your Partner's Ex In a world where social media reigns supreme, it's hard to deny the temptation of snooping on your partner's past. 'Basic' is a hilarious and poignant comedy by Chelsea Devantez that explores this universal truth. The film is loosely based on Devantez's 2020 short and follows the story of Gloria, a brokenhearted woman who becomes fixated on her ex-boyfriend's ex-girlfriend, Kailynn. Gloria (played by Ashley Park) is introduced to us as she lies in bed, scrolling through Kailynn's Instagram posts in the dead of night. We see her internal monologue, where she mocks Kailynn's life and appearance, but beneath the surface, we sense her own insecurities and fears. This is a relatable moment for many Nigerians who have found themselves mindlessly scrolling through social media, comparing their lives to others. As the story unfolds, we see Gloria's obsession with Kailynn (played by Leighton Meester) escalate, much to the chagrin of her boyfriend, Nick (Taylor John Smith). When Nick kicks Gloria out, she finds herself alone, drowning her sorrows in vodka and pizza rolls. The film's first act is a frenetic, anxiety-inducing ride, reminiscent of the experience of scrolling through a never-ending FYP. But 'Basic' is more than just a comedy; it's also a commentary on the dangers of cyberstalking and the perils of social media obsession. Devantez expertly weaves together Gloria's narration, flashbacks to her childhood, and her happier days with Nick, creating a nuanced portrait of a woman struggling to come to terms with her emotions. The film features a talented cast, including Ashley Park, Leighton Meester, and Taylor John Smith, who deliver solid performances. The cinematography is also noteworthy, capturing the frenetic energy of social media obsession and the quiet moments of introspection. In the end, 'Basic' is a fun, fizzy comedy that will have you laughing and nodding your head in recognition. It's a reminder that, despite our best efforts to present a perfect online image, we're all struggling with our own insecurities and fears. And sometimes, it's okay to admit that we're not as perfect as we seem.