Review of Sorry to Bother You (2018) by Matthew D — 14 Jul 2018

A wild satire on capitalism.

Boots Riley directed Sorry to Bother You (2018) with biting social commentary, scathing critiques on capitalism, and hilarious mockery of the ultra wealthy and dirt poor. Riley's pounding hip hop score makes you bounce as laugh uproariously at the witty jokes at the expense of the stepped upon Cassius Green. Riley blends smooth panning shots with shocking edits, and bizarre twists. There is no satirical film like Sorry to Bother You.

Riley's writing is not only funny and clever, but I appreciated his modern look, contemporary feel, and outgoing style. Sorry to Bother You feels fresh as it is poignant in its commentary. Sorry to Bother You is like Office Space meets Soylent Green. I doubt any member of the audience will leave not wanting more.

I have to hand it to lead actor LaKeith Stanfield as Cassius Green in Sorry to Bother You. His casual nature and effortless style make him instantly likable. You are rooting for this strange man to succeed and just find happiness. Stanfield pulls off the serious worried citizen, uncertain though diligent employee, genuine friend, and the sincere boyfriend all the same conviction. I hope to see Stanfield in many more movies in the future. He is inspired in Sorry to Bother You!

Tessa Thompson is really wonderful as Green's girlfriend Detroit. She is excellent both as the passionate advocate and indignant performance artist. Her sweet persona in Green and Detroit's relationship is so convincing and natural. Her outrage in Green's obedience to his company feels genuine and deserved. They have quite the complex relationship and pull of an interesting cinematic pairing. I would be remiss to not mention that I love her crazy outfits and avant-garde earrings as well!

As far as Sorry to Bother You's supporting cast goes, Armie Hammer is hilarious as the eccentric billionaire Steve Lift. Terry Crews is a riot as Cassius' uncle Sergio Green. I just wish there were more of him in Sorry to Bother You. Steven Yeun is fantastic as union organizer and part time philanderer Squeeze. Jermaine Fowler is really funny as Cassius' buddy Salvador too! Lastly, I will give a shout out to the actor that played the ever mysterious and humorous Mr. Blank: Omari Hardwick. I certainly would like to see from his acting career as well.

Overall, you need to see Sorry to Bother You. The gripping story, inventive direction, fun characters, goofy storytelling, sarcastic jokes, sleek style, and reverberating rap score are all worth the price of admission.