Boots Riley delivers his signature wacky style in I Love Boosters, and the star-packed cast fully commits to the film’s weirdness—especially Demi Moore, who shines.
Riley assembles an A-list ensemble for this playful romp through the fashion industry, with Keke Palmer leading the charge alongside Naomi Ackie, Eiza González, LaKeith Stanfield, Will Poulter, and an unrecognizable Don Cheadle.
Palmer plays Corvette, the leader of a crew of professional shoplifters who target high-end fashion designer Christine Smith (Moore), reselling stolen items at more accessible prices. The tagline sums it up: “It’s like community service.”
When Corvette learns of Smith’s upcoming—and most expensive—clothing line, the crew plans their biggest heist yet.
Writer-director Riley stays true to his off-kilter roots with this satirical take on the fashion industry, though the themes here feel more accessible than in his previous work. The industry proves ripe for critique, and Riley doesn’t hold back.
In true Riley fashion, the third act goes off the rails, veering into John Carpenter's They Live (territory. A sudden, out-of-nowhere revelation shifts the narrative in a way that may leave viewers confused. It’s the kind of twist that likely requires a second viewing to fully process. Still, Riley lands his broader point about inequality within the fashion world.
Palmer showcases an impressive range, shifting from self-righteous to melancholic with ease. Meanwhile, Moore delivers one of her most delightfully eccentric performances. She embodies her character’s oddity without going over the top; instead, her rhythmic, monologue-heavy delivery does the work. She’s the type who dominates every room—often silencing others just by speaking.
The outrageous fashion is runway-ready, adding vibrancy to the film’s wild set pieces. Likewise, the colorful production design stands out, enhancing both character and setting.
The soundtrack complements the film’s quirky tone, pairing groovy melodies with the visuals.
I Love Boosters is a bold, satirical, and artistic effort from a singular filmmaker. While many will admire its creativity, some may find themselves disengaged as the story takes a bizarre turn in its final act.
