Writer-director Boots Riley opened the 40th SXSW film and television festival in Austin with his new film, I Love Boosters, a vibrant exploration of the struggles creatives face in a capitalist world.
Set against this backdrop, the film follows three characters—Corvette (Keke Palmer), Sade (Naomi Ackie), and Mariah (Taylour Paige)—who find themselves squatting in an abandoned chicken restaurant. They hustle by stealing designer items and reselling them around the Bay Area, quickly catching the attention of fashion magnate Christie Smith (Demi Moore). When Christie insults them and takes one of Corvette’s designs, the trio devises a plan to raid her entire inventory, sparking a movement among retail workers.
Eight years after his debut film, Sorry to Bother You, Riley returns with another striking narrative. Palmer’s performance resonates, grounding the film in reality while Ackie and Paige add depth to their roles. Their thieving antics bring to mind the infamous “Bling Ring,” but with a fresh twist.
Supporting roles enhance the film’s narrative: Poppy Liu portrays a Chinese factory worker seeking revenge, while Eiza González plays a punk worker planning to unionize. Will Poulter shines as her overzealous manager, and LaKeith Stanfield adds flair as a model tainted by a dark past.
Riley’s signature style shines, with absurdism infused throughout. From Christie’s tilted penthouse to quirky sci-fi elements, every aspect captures the campiness of modern culture. He even uses claymation for a group of fashion minions who undergo surgical transformations for style. A memorable car chase scene is crafted using scaled miniatures of San Francisco, despite filming primarily taking place in Atlanta and Louisville.
I Love Boosters resonates in today’s climate, reflecting the ongoing divide between the wealthy and the struggling. According to a recent survey by the Pew Research Center, nearly 70% of Americans feel that the economic system unfairly favors the rich, making the film’s themes timely and potent.
Though the film offers a sharp critique of capitalism, it also reveals a sense of longing for meaningful connections and purpose. In a world where the drive for profit can overshadow humanity, Riley captures a collective desire for change and community.
Riley’s work continues to challenge viewers, combining humor with hard truths. With I Love Boosters, he emphasizes the urgency of fighting for a better future while reminding us that creativity can thrive even in challenging circumstances.
Title: I Love Boosters
Festival: SXSW (Headliner)
Distributor: Neon
Release Date: May 22, 2026
Director-screenwriter: Boots Riley
Cast: Keke Palmer, Naomi Ackie, Taylour Paige, Poppy Liu, Eiza González, LaKeith Stanfield, Will Poulter, Demi Moore
Running Time: 1 hr 45 mins
For more insights about the implications of capitalism in today’s world, you can explore the findings from Pew Research Center.
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