Film Review - "Sorry to Bother You" Breaks the Mold in the Best Way Possible
Sorry to Bother You is one of those films you have to see to believe. Bordering the line of art-house darling and complete and utter pandemonium, the film grabs you and never let’s go. In a desperate attempt to gain steady employment, Cassius Green (Lakeith Stanfield) lands a job at a telemarketing firm where the rules are simple – S.T.T.S (Stick To The Script). However, that’s easier said than done when a stream of unsuccessful sales calls, leads him to adopt a “white voice”. The voice soon catapults him into the upper echelon of the company, which significantly improves his life. However, he soon learns that his new status comes at a price. Sorry to Bother You is very aware of what it is. The film never takes itself too seriously. I love that we are now in a space where art surrounding black people can be avant-garde, funny, quirky, raw, and emotional as it wants to be without creative restrictions or suppression. There is a freedom to the film that is so refreshing, and as a black audience member, it’s nice to see a film that tackles sensitive issues in a way that is not so heavy-handed.
Along with its vibrant narration, outlandish characters, and adrenaline-fueled story line, Sorry to Bother You gives a frank commentary on race and capitalism. The film is a complete roller coaster ride, and the whole time you’re wondering “How did we get here and how the hell are we getting off?” I haven’t had this much fun watching a film in a long time. If this is the kind of content Boots Riley is putting out, I cannot even fathom what else he has in store. He is an auteur with a vision that is truly unique, special, and completely his own. I hope he continues this trajectory. Sorry to Bother You will be one of the breakout films of 2018. It will spur a lot of conversation, which I feel is a true testament to the film and it’s unflinching approach to hot-button topics. The picture challenges the audience all while giving a visual kaleidoscope of pure insanity. It’s the perfect film for the summer.
Sorry to Bother You opens is out now.