Full Breakdown
Connor Storrie Stars in Verizon's New Short Film "Look Behind You"
4/1/2026, 12:31:52 PM
Overview of the Short Film
Connor Storrie, known for his breakout role in the HBO series *Heated Rivalry*, stars in a new short film titled *Look Behind You*, directed by Nia DaCosta, renowned for her work on *Candyman* and *28 Years Later: The Bone Temple*. Released on March 31, 2026, the four-and-a-half-minute film serves as a promotional piece for Verizon, blending elements of horror and comedy to highlight the brand's smart home technology.
Plot Summary
In *Look Behind You*, Storrie portrays a character who arrives at a remote cabin, intending to rehearse lines from a script while preparing dinner. The atmosphere quickly shifts from calm to chaotic as various smart home features activate unexpectedly, creating a series of eerie disturbances. These include loud music, flickering lights, and a ringing phone, leading Storrie to believe he is not alone. The film culminates in a comedic twist when a rideshare driver, rather than a sinister intruder, appears at the door, revealing that the disturbances were the result of Storrie's own accidental butt-dials.
Creative Collaboration
Storrie expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “From the concept to execution, this was an incredibly collaborative and creatively fulfilling experience.” He praised Verizon for their understanding of storytelling and culture, while DaCosta noted the fun and creativity involved in bringing the film to life. Leslie Berland, Verizon's Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, described the collaboration as "pure magic," emphasizing the innovative approach to showcasing the brand's network reliability.
Reception and Impact
The film quickly gained traction online, amassing over 7 million views within its first four hours, marking one of the fastest engagement rates for Verizon's marketing efforts. This success comes at a time when Verizon is facing stiff competition from rivals like T-Mobile and AT&T, making the film a strategic move to reinforce its market position.
Criticism & Opposition
While the film has been well-received, some critics have pointed out that the humorous approach may not resonate with all audiences, particularly those expecting a more traditional horror narrative. However, the blend of comedy and horror has been praised for its originality and entertainment value.
What's Next for Storrie
Following the release of *Look Behind You*, Storrie continues to build his career, having recently hosted *Saturday Night Live* and being in talks for roles in upcoming projects, including the A24 comedy *Peaked*. His rising profile in the entertainment industry, coupled with this innovative brand collaboration, positions him as a notable figure in contemporary media.
Verbatim Quotes
- “From the concept to execution, this was an incredibly collaborative and creatively fulfilling experience.” — Connor Storrie
- “ DaCosta said, “I had such a great time working with Connor and making this spot for Verizon!” — Nia DaCosta
- “The collaboration and creative process was pure magic.” — Leslie Berland, Verizon EVP and CMO
In summary, *Look Behind You* not only showcases Connor Storrie's talents but also represents a significant shift in how brands engage with audiences through creative storytelling.
