Reviews by:
@badtakegoodtake
@augustkellerwrites
RATE THIS MOVIE
6
5
4
3
I can bet my savings there's a review out there that has called Sorry to Bother You "wildly original". Big deal! It's true!
I'm also fairly certain it's been called "absurdist" and "a scathing social commentary", which yes to both labels. Thing is, I'm not sure if this film would even want to be eternally trapped within these titles and adjectives, since it does so much more than all that. To inevitably water down what Sorry to Bother You represents, it is one of the few films I have seen that completely and accurately portray what modern society looks like right now, whether it's race relations or the external and internal effects of capitalism or moral quandaries or personal identity in general.
It's not for anyone that doesn't want to be jolted out of their comfort zone, that's for sure. It's a very uncomfortable film that doesn't have to be tightly wound or perfectly crafted to make you think, even just a little bit. I wasn't completely sold on all of its narrative beats and I found Cassius' rise through the ranks to be too unbelievably fast for my taste. It's abundantly clear that this film succeeds more as a whole and as separate parts and ideas, than seeing these individual parts get stitched together to create a story (if you know what I mean).
To sum it up, it's a ride. Boots Riley is a daring voice that I'd like to hear and see more of.
4/5
RATE THIS REVIEW
6
5
4
3
Sorry to Bother You is witty and unique. The story is absurd because its sobering social commentary is more disarming when hyperbolized, evoking relatable laughter. The plot of a struggling man choosing between personal stability and collective progress is a trope, but highly relevant. Plus, Sorry to Bother You differentiates itself with exaggeration, biting comedy, and political weight. Racism, classism, and social norms are directly challenged, yet the film miraculously maintains its playful tone. Furthermore, the acting perfectly matches Sorry to Bother You's delicate balance of humor and drama. Overall, this script is incredibly funny, intelligent, and powerful.
Technically, Sorry to Bother You is visionary. The cinematography uses dynamic lighting, focus, composition, dolly zooms, and colors. Its sound gets symbolically faint, its editing has flavorful match cuts, and its soundtrack is eclectic. The effects employ prosthetics, CGI, and claymation, heightening the surreal atmosphere. Also, the production design is cartoonish, mirroring the satirical themes. The cast is deep, and the direction is effortlessly cohesive. From figurative representations to clever transitions, the filmmaking is truly creative. Its strangeness may confuse some, but viewers who appreciate irreverence will love Sorry to Bother You wholeheartedly.
Writing: 10/10
Direction: 10/10
Cinematography: 10/10
Acting: 8/10
Editing: 9/10
Sound: 9/10
Score/Soundtrack: 9/10
Production Design: 8/10
Casting: 8/10
Effects: 9/10
Overall Score: 9.0/10
RATE THIS REVIEW
6
5
4
3
Comments