Booksmart, the directorial debut of Olivia Wilde, delivered. It stars Kaitlyn Deaver and Beanie Felstein as the Booksmart Amy and Molly. One day before graduation, a revelation shocks both of them as they realize the other kids in school chose to be smart and have fun, unlike them, who chose to only be smart. Now, they are on a mission to show the kids in school they’re just as fun as them in a complete night of chaos.
The films comparison to Superbad is exponential but it has two females instead of males.Then you think not many films with female leads has ever had that kind of comparison and you realize how groundbreaking this film really is in regards to the representation and the way it's handled in the film. One of the two leads are a lesbian and the arc for the character is authentic with a lot of her firsts being showcased in the film.
The main characters showcase unbelievable chemistry throughout the film. Amy and Molly’s genuine love for each other is show in the writing and the actresses delivery is fantastic. They push and encourage each other in a way two friends should is phenomenal to see on the big screen.
Billie Lourd stars as the hilarious Gigi and Skyler Gisondo as the lost and just needing a friend Jared. The supporting cast, Jessica Williams, Jason Sudekis, Will Forte and Lisa Kudrow, serve as hilarious “adult figures" in the film. Serving audiences with amazing performances were also Molly Gordon as Annabelle "Triple A" as well as Austin Crute and Noah Galvin as the comedic duo Alan and George and Eduardo Franco as Theo.
This film draws comparisons to Superbad, one I missed years ago ‘‘hint hint: I was too damn young’’. Its unique in nature with most films now being made to make money. This was made to genuinely tell a unique new coming of age story about two best friends who discover that times have truly changed and don't want to be afraid to change with it.
The movie is hilarious and includes lots of life parallels that a lot of people can relate to. It will have you feeling all the feels whether they’re personal or for the characters on screen. The film leaves you wanting more and includes an incredible soundtrack.
This film has already become a cult classic and one of the best coming of age films based on its ability to bring out feel-good emotions and the authenticity within it’s characters. Olivia Wilde has struck gold with this film, regardless of how much it makes at the box office. I don't see this film fading away anytime soon as it’s empowering, hilarious and entertaining. We need films as progressive and diverse like this to be supported so we can get more in the future.
Echo Grade: A+
