Booksmart (2019) Review: A Refreshing and Hilarious Coming-of-Age Comedy
Booksmart, directed by Olivia Wilde and released in 2019, is a standout coming-of-age comedy that offers a fresh and witty take on the high school genre. With its sharp humor, relatable characters, and a modern perspective on teenage life, the film has garnered praise for its clever script and strong performances.
Plot Summary: A Night of Revelations and Revelry
The film centers on Amy (Kaitlyn Dever) and Molly (Beanie Feldstein), two high-achieving high school seniors who have spent their entire academic careers focused on their studies and maintaining impeccable grades. As graduation approaches, they come to a startling realization: they have neglected to experience the fun and social aspects of high school life. Determined to make up for lost time, the two best friends decide to attend a wild, end-of-year party that they had previously avoided.
What follows is a night filled with comedic misadventures as Amy and Molly navigate a series of chaotic and unexpected situations while trying to find the party. The film captures their journey of self-discovery, friendship, and the desire to live life to the fullest, all while delivering laughs and heartfelt moments.
Performance and Characterization: A Dynamic Duo
Kaitlyn Dever and Beanie Feldstein deliver standout performances as Amy and Molly, respectively. Their chemistry and comedic timing drive the film’s humor and emotional depth.
Dever’s portrayal of Amy is both earnest and endearing, showcasing her character’s struggle to balance her academic ambitions with her newfound desire to experience life outside the classroom. Feldstein brings a vibrant and charismatic energy to Molly, capturing her character’s enthusiasm and loyalty.
The supporting cast, including performances by Billie Lourd, Victoria Ruesga, and Molly Gordon, adds to the film’s humor and depth. Each character brings their own unique qualities to the story, contributing to the film’s ensemble charm.
Direction and Cinematography: A Fresh and Energetic Approach
Olivia Wilde’s direction of Booksmart is marked by its energetic and innovative approach. Wilde creates a film that is both visually dynamic and narratively engaging, using a combination of sharp editing and vibrant cinematography to capture the excitement and chaos of the night.
The cinematography, by Jason McCormick, complements Wilde’s direction with its lively and colorful visual style. The film’s use of camera work and lighting enhances its comedic and emotional moments, creating a visually appealing and immersive experience.
The film’s pacing is brisk and engaging, maintaining a sense of momentum throughout the night’s events. Wilde’s direction effectively balances humor with heartfelt moments, creating a well-rounded and entertaining film.
Themes and Legacy: Friendship, Identity, and Self-Discovery
Booksmart explores themes of friendship, identity, and self-discovery with a modern and relatable perspective. The film delves into the pressures of academic achievement and the desire to find one’s place in the world. It also celebrates the importance of friendship and the value of embracing new experiences.
The film’s legacy is marked by its fresh take on the coming-of-age genre and its positive representation of female friendship. Booksmart has been praised for its smart, inclusive, and empowering approach, resonating with audiences for its authenticity and humor.
Where to Watch Booksmart Online
For those interested in watching Booksmart, the film is available on various streaming platforms and rental services:
Streaming Services
- Hulu: Booksmart can be streamed on Hulu, available as part of a subscription.
- Amazon Prime Video: The film is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video, available as part of a subscription or for rental/purchase.
Rental/Purchase Streaming Services
- Apple iTunes: Booksmart is available for rent or purchase on Apple iTunes, providing viewers with the option to watch on Apple devices.
- Google Play Movies: Google Play Movies offers Booksmart for rental or purchase, making it easy to stream on various devices.
- Vudu: Vudu provides options to rent or buy the film, known for its high-quality streaming and extensive film catalog.
- YouTube Movies: The film is also available on YouTube Movies for rental or purchase, allowing for easy streaming through the YouTube platform.
Final Thoughts: A Delightful and Modern Comedy
Booksmart is a delightful and modern coming-of-age comedy that offers a fresh perspective on high school life. With its sharp humor, strong performances, and energetic direction, the film provides an entertaining and heartfelt experience.
The film’s exploration of friendship and self-discovery, combined with its witty and engaging narrative, makes it a standout entry in the genre. For those seeking a film that balances humor with meaningful moments, Booksmart delivers a memorable and enjoyable cinematic adventure.
