Jawline (film)

Jawline is a 2019 American documentary film directed by Liza Mandelup. The film follows the lives of several young men in rural America who aspire to become social media influencers, specifically through building a following on live streaming platforms targeted at young women.

The documentary primarily focuses on Austyn Tester, a sixteen-year-old living in rural Tennessee. He spends hours streaming live, interacting with his audience of mostly teenage girls who shower him with virtual gifts and affection. The film explores the dynamics of parasocial relationships, the allure and pitfalls of online fame, and the economic realities driving these young men to seek validation and financial security through the internet.

Jawline also touches upon the broader ecosystem of talent managers, social media strategists, and the companies profiting from the growing trend of influencing. It examines the pressures faced by these aspiring influencers to maintain their online personas and the emotional toll it can take. The film was critically acclaimed for its nuanced portrayal of internet culture and its exploration of themes such as masculinity, vulnerability, and the search for connection in the digital age. It premiered at the 2019 Sundance Film Festival.