by Rosa Parra

I Love Boosters, directed by Boots Riley, follows a group of skilled female shoplifters targeting a ruthless high-end fashion mogul. It features a stellar cast including Keke Palmer, Demi Moore, Eiza González, Naomi Ackie, Lakeith Stanfield, Poppy Liu, and Will Poulter.

I loved it! Boots Riley excels at highlighting serious issues through absurdist and surreal perspectives. He balances satire with a deep exploration of broader problems, such as the harsh realities of the fashion industry.

The film covers various aspects of fashion—from brainstorming and credit-taking for designs, to sweatshop production, selling merchandise in brand stores, and what happens to clothes after purchase or theft. It also examines how clothing serves as a costume that shapes perceptions and identities. Ultimately, it delves into what’s beneath the clothes—our skin—and how skin tone influences external views.

Fashion designers who only benefit from finished products and focus on building brand image do so mainly because of their wealth, not passion or talent. The harsh truth is that ambition and money dominate the industry, with the elite profiting from others’ hard work. Many factory workers suffer health issues due to exposure to harmful chemicals, and wages are debated—not just for factory workers but retail employees too.

The costumes and hairstyling alone are worth the price of admission. The film is visually striking—the colors, vibrancy, and production design create a kaleidoscope that reflects the fashion world and its absurdities, especially the extremes designers impose on others.

Performances were exceptional, especially Eiza González, who delivered a standout role alongside Keke Palmer. Palmer demonstrates her comedic talent, thanks to Riley’s excellent writing, and all cast members excel. The quartet of Palmer, Paige, Liu, and Ackie is flawless. Their chemistry feels genuinely rooted in reality, with conversations reflecting a long-standing friendship among Palmer, Paige, and Ackie. When Liu joins, the dynamic deepens, and the stakes increase. Demi Moore as Christie Smith is both comedic and absurd but also frightening, as characters like her seem to exist in the real world. Stanfield and Poulter contribute well in supporting roles, but it’s the women who truly lead the story.

What I appreciated most is Riley’s unapologetically original vision. For many of us, serious topics are faced with humor or dark satire. Riley captures this perfectly. Often, I respond to circumstances with humor—not to diminish their seriousness but as an anxious reaction and a common way to face reality.

Overall, I Love Boosters is an enjoyable film with a strong cast, vibrant designs, thought-provoking commentary, and a unique directorial style. I truly loved I Love Boosters.

Rating: 9/10