Booksmart (2019) Review

Straight-A students Molly (Beanie Feldstein) and Amy (Kaitlyn Dever) never had time to party, they were too busy studying and now, they're going to an impressive college. But so are all the students who partied hard... Molly and Amy plan to make their first (and last) high school party, a night to remember.

The on-screen chemistry between Beanie Feldstein and Kaitlyn Dever is so heart-warmingly natural that you're on board with Booksmart from the beginning. You almost forget you're watching a performance, it's that pure. From the very moment Molly makes her way down the stairs of her house, posing and dancing, followed by Amy leaving her car to join in, these two characters, and actresses have an unmatchable bond. Both Feldstein and Dever are evidently destined for even greater things post-Booksmart.

If you read our review for Long Shot, you'll understand how we were surprised it was a comedy that was actually funny. Much to our surprise, Booksmart has given us that same, sweet feeling all over again. Dare we say it, this may even be the stronger comedy of the two. The gags hit hard, and just when you when you think you've heard it all, bam - you hear another rib-tickler.

Skyler Gisondo (Vacation, Santa Clarita Diet) is fantastic as Jared, a high-schooler who thinks he can buy the affections of his peers with gift bags and iPads. Gisondo plays the goofball character exceptionally well and as much as we love seeing him do it, we'd love to see his acting range in the future. Maybe next time, creepy Gisondo?

In no way does Booksmart reinvent the coming of age comedy, but this is certainly a very welcome, well received addition to already swamped genre that has been crying out for more creativity in recent years.

This may be the only film where watching pornography in the back of the Principal's Uber isn't the funniest part of the scene. Cardi B is, for those of you who have seen it already. The scene is delivered with comedic grace, wit and charm - it's pure, unrivalled excellence. The scene is our favourite film moment of 2019 so far!

In a generally light-hearted addition to the coming-of-age comedy genre, Booksmart exists to convey a female-led take on the unapologetic youth of today. They're cultured, academic, intelligent, driven, motivated, determined - and most importantly, they understand just how crucial it is to let your hair down, even if it is just for one night of your entire academic life...

Rating: 4/5