the sweet east (2023) Movie Review
The sweet east review: "The Sweet East" is a unique film that captures the attention but falls short in delivering a meaningful takeaway. It presents America as a rundown theme park, skillfully crafted yet lacking in humor, intelligence, and edginess.
Discussing the film's ideas feels like a potential trap. Created by cinephiles, the movie explores the metaphorical garbage of society, with a particular focus on ideological grossness. Scenes like the Capitol Building introduction during a school trip are deliberately disorienting, aiming for shock value without losing its grimy charm.[ the sweet east review]
The plot follows Lillian, played by Talia Ryder, a high schooler navigating through bizarre experiences across America. From a pizza restaurant shooting reminiscent of real-life absurdities to encounters with Maryland punks and a peculiar neo-Nazi character played by Simon Rex, the film strives to be provocative, occasionally using American flags as Michael Bay uses product placements.
Lillian's journey becomes a critique of American society, where she encounters cartoonish characters attempting to control and objectify her. Despite a talkative script by Nick Pinkerton, Ryder's performance shines, especially in the opening credits where she delivers a catchy dream pop ballad.
As Lillian travels, she interacts with various characters portrayed by a talented cast, including Ayo Edebiri, Jeremy O. Harris, and Jacob Elordi. However, the film struggles to maintain momentum in their bizarre arcs. Pinkerton's dialogue-heavy script relies on gibberish to engage with modern society, leading to dry jokes and instances where the film comes off as smug.
Despite its flaws, the film's standout moment is a gonzo shoot-out with cartoon sounds, showcasing director Williams' provocative instincts. Williams, known for shooting foundational indies, brings a distinct vision to his directorial debut, utilizing harsh lighting, color filters, and unconventional camera styles. While "The Sweet East" may be a throwback for indie filmmaking, it promises a bright future for its director.