Movies News Talk
American Horror Stories season 3's first episode, "Bestie," explores the horrific realm of poisonous online relationships. The narrative centers on young Shelby, who is struggling with the loss of her mother and school bullying. An online friendship with Bestie, a girl limited to her house because of medical problems, gives Shelby comfort. Best friend motivates Shelby to "face her fears," through their internet relationship, which sets her on ever more risky and disturbing paths.
The episode looks at the negative aspects of internet communities and the possibility for bad influences. The eerie environment is produced by Best Friend's encouragement of dangerous activities combined with her own enigmatic situation. For Shelby, this online relationship starts to cause pressure since it blurs the lines separating support from manipulation.
The episode explores the Pro Ana community, a real-world online group endorsing destructive body image standards and eating disorders. The way the show presents this community brings attention to the risky nature of such online environments and their capacity to affect sensitive people. Eating disorders are severe mental diseases with which one needs professional assistance. Please contact a mental health professional or support group if you or someone you know are experiencing an eating disorder.
The episode ends in a startling turn revealing the actual character of Best Friend's identity. This surprising discovery reveals the sinister reality behind the apparently encouraging online relationship. The conclusion makes viewers wonder about Best Friend's actual intentions and the results of internet friendships in the digital era of today.
"Best friend" is a warning story about the possible risks of internet communities and the need of critical thinking while socializing with others there. The episode emphasizes how easily people—especially young people—are manipulated and influenced negatively. It reminds viewers to give their own well-being top priority and to get help from reliable sources, so stressing the need of caution when interacting with online friendships.