Jill Kargman’s ‘Influenced’ Roasts NYC Momfluencer Culture in Brutal New Comedy

Published 05/14/2026, 4:44 AM CDT

Credits: Influenced (2026) Official Trailer/ Brainstorm Media and Menemsha Films/ YouTube/ Producer- Tiny Office Productions, Akward Productions, Iocane Productions/ Distributor- Menemsha Films, Brainstorm Media

Jill Kargman is back with her new movie, Influenced. The writer and actress is one of the few people who understands New York’s Upper East Side quite well, largely because she grew up there. However, that has not stopped her from taking inspiration from the neighborhood for her shows. She often satirizes the lifestyle and culture of the people, and the Bravo comedy series Odd Mom Out is one shining example. 

After the show, which ran for nearly three years, she is back with yet another gem. And she is once again using her unique voice and storytelling to take a dig at Upper East Side momfluencers in NYC. Here is a closer look at the new movie starring Kargman.

Jill Kargman’s movie Influenced satirizes momfluencers

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Much like Jill Kargman’s previous projects, her new satire comedy, Influenced, does not shy away from bold jokes that are both thought-provoking and hilarious. This movie satirizes the wealthy Upper East Siders, who also have not been able to escape from the clutches of social media influence and follower counts. It follows Dzanielle, played by Kargman herself, who is an elite, rich, workout-addicted influencer. 

And the story of the movies revolves around how she deals with her fake friendships and chaos as she strives for one million followers. And the journey, filled with sharp jokes blended with harsh reality, offers her something much more meaningful. As for those unaware of the term, momfluencer, it refers to mothers who document their lifestyle, motherhood, and parenting on social media platforms. While the movie is written by Kargman, Carol Hartsell, and Sean Crespo, it is directed by Rachel Israel.

Kevin Hart’s New Netflix Comedy Is One Long Bachelor Party Gone Wrong

And for a movie with a brilliant story and direction, both Kargman and director Rachel Israel pulled some of the notable names for a surprise appearance in the movie. 

The star-studded cast of Influenced

Jill Kargman as Dzanielle: She has previously starred in Odd Mom Out. 

David Krumholtz as Gary: 

Eugene Cordero as Yuki

Clara Wong as Zhija Du 

Jenny Mollen as Liz Hittler

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

The movie also includes surprise cameo appearances from Gwyneth Paltrow and Drew Barrymore as themselves for brief comedic scenes, as seen in the trailer of the movie. The Rip star, Matt Damon, also appears in the film. Meanwhile, Justin Bartha also joined the project as Jordan. 

Each of the cameos feels natural and fitting to the story and setting. If anything, the star-studded cast adds even more fun to the film. The movie was released on May 8 and is currently playing in theaters.

Where to Watch the ‘Busboys’ Movie in 2026? Complete Guide to Stream the Comedy

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Will you watch Influenced? Let us know in the comments.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE :

ADVERTISEMENT

Pritha Debroy

669 articles

Pritha Debroy is an Entertainment writer at NetflixJunkie who can seamlessly switch between breaking down an NBA play and obsessing over the latest K-drama twist. She has written over 3,400 NBA and NFL articles, but her true joy lies in diving into Netflix’s trendiest shows—unpacking themes, stories, and yes, the occasional celebrity chaos. When she is not writing, you’ll find her devouring thrillers (anything by Freida McFadden is an instant yes), revisiting comfort classics like 10 Things I Hate About You and 27 Dresses, or hunting for her next binge-worthy series.

Edited By: Hriddhi Maitra

ADVERTISEMENT

EDITORS' PICK