I Love Boosters Review: A Wild Ride Through the World of Fashion and Activism
Boots Riley's latest film, "I Love Boosters," is a wild and hilarious satire that takes viewers on a journey through the fashion industry and the world of activism. It's a visually innovative comedy that blends surrealism, social commentary, and a unique style that sets it apart from other films.
The film follows Corvette (Keke Palmer), a frustrated clothing designer who squats in an abandoned fast-food joint and leads a group of "boosters" called the Velvet Gang. They target the work of megastar designer Christie Smith (Demi Moore) and engage in elaborate schemes to steal and resell her clothing. Along the way, they encounter a colorful cast of characters, including a disgruntled boutique worker (Eiza González), a Chinese sweatshop employee (Poppy Liu), a pyramid scheme huckster (Don Cheadle), and a mysteriously seductive male model (LaKeith Stanfield).
One of the most striking aspects of "I Love Boosters" is its visual innovation. The film is a feast for the eyes, with a unique style that blends fashion, music videos, and street culture. The cinematography, production design, and costume design are all top-notch, creating a visually stunning and immersive experience. The film also includes extensive stop-motion animation and a monstrous creature designed by FX veteran Alec Gillis, adding to its unique and eclectic style.
However, the sheer amount of imagination on display can start to feel exhausting. The film introduces a lot of ideas and concepts, and while most of them are exhilarating, the speed at which they are introduced can be overwhelming. The film also feels a little incomplete, likely because the various issues that Riley is confronting are hardly easily solved in real life.
Despite these minor flaws, "I Love Boosters" is a testament to Riley's growing skills as a filmmaker. The film never gets away from him, and he continues to flex his cinematic muscles. The climactic action sequence was made using a variety of charming miniatures, and the post-credits scene is particularly cheeky, poking fun at anyone who might think the film was lacking.
In conclusion, "I Love Boosters" is a wild and hilarious satire that takes viewers on a journey through the fashion industry and the world of activism. It's a visually innovative comedy that blends surrealism, social commentary, and a unique style that sets it apart from other films. While it may not be enough to quell Boots Riley's harshest critics, it's a testament to his growing skills and a must-watch for fans of innovative and thought-provoking cinema.
