In a world where flat, boring lighting and dull cinematography have become increasingly popular in film and TV, it’s increasingly rare to see a film brimming with color. Don’t tell that to Boots Riley.
The auteur behind the satirical cult classic “Sorry to Bother You” is back in the director’s chair for his new film “I Love Boosters,” which is the antithesis of many films coming out these days. It is a movie filled with so much color that it becomes a necessary part of the story.
“I Love Boosters” follows a trio of women, played by Keke Palmer, Taylour Paige and Naomi Ackie, who go around the Bay Area shoplifting designer clothes from big retail stores. They decide to specifically target the Metro Design stores, which are owned by billionaire fashion designer Christie Smith, played by Demi Moore.
The story bounces between live-action “Looney Tunes” gags and poignant social satire in a way that Riley can only balance without feeling totally disjointed. There’s a lot happening in “I Love Boosters.”
It’s likely a film that takes multiple viewings to fully digest everything that’s happening. One minute, there’s a demon that sucks the souls from women by performing cunnilingus, the next minute, there’s a speech about how the working class needs to stand up against the wealthy who exploit them.
Styliscially, “I Love Boosters” is a beauty. All of the sets and costumes are wonderfully realized. The screen is constantly filled with so much color and creativity. The score, which was composed by Tune-Yards, is also fantastic. I still find myself humming the “Hi-Yo” leitmotif that plays throughout the movie.
While there is so much to love about “I Love Boosters,” there are also some things that don’t totally work. Moore is fine in the role of Christie Smith, but it feels like a role that should’ve been played by an actor who can ham it up a bit more. Having a villain who carries more of a presence would’ve fit in with the absurdity of the story.
Also, there are so many gags in the movie that felt like I should’ve been laughing much harder at. The whole final act is so absurd, and when I think about it, I smile, but I didn’t find myself laughing as much in the theater. That could simply be due to the fact that Riley is throwing so much at you at once.
“I Love Boosters” isn’t a perfect film, but it does end with a positive message that felt right for the film. Is it overly preachy? Possibly, but so many films that focus on social satire end on such a sour note. It felt refreshing to have a film tackling difficult subject matter in a positive and upbeat way.
From a creativity standpoint, there may not be many movies that outdo “I Love Boosters” this year. Riley is a unique talent with a strong vision, and though everything doesn’t work, it’s one of the funnest and fastest-paced movies of the year.
Verdict: 7/10