Tuesday 26 September 2023

REVIEW: Bottoms (2023) - Starring Rachel Sennott, Ayo Edebiri, Ruby Cruz and Havana Rose Liu

Review by Jon Donnis
"Bottoms" is a 2023 American satirical teen sex comedy film directed by Emma Seligman, and it certainly makes a bold and unconventional statement.

One of the film's strengths lies in its audacious and humorous take on various themes. "Bottoms" stands out as a satirical critique of victimization, violence, and even itself. The exaggerated and absurd situations it presents create a unique and somewhat absurd comedic experience.


Rachel Sennott and Ayo Edebiri deliver commendable performances in their respective roles, adding depth to the characters they portray. Emma Seligman's direction also deserves credit for managing the film's unconventional narrative.

However, "Bottoms" does have its share of drawbacks. It's apparent that the film carries a particular agenda, which may not resonate with everyone. The casting choices seem driven by a checkbox mentality, which can detract from the authenticity of the characters and their interactions. This emphasis on being "woke" at times overshadows the potential for the film to become an instant classic.


The deliberate cringe-worthy moments intended for comedic effect often come across as uncomfortable rather than genuinely funny, which can disrupt the overall viewing experience. Additionally, the film struggles to strike a balance between full-on comedy and moments of seriousness and drama, resulting in an uneven tone.

One of the film's biggest challenges is its difficulty in making the audience genuinely care about the characters or their outcomes. This lack of emotional connection can limit the impact of the film's more dramatic moments.

In summary, "Bottoms" is a satirical and unconventional take on the teen sex comedy genre. While it has its moments of humor and strong performances, it also grapples with its own agenda and struggles to maintain a consistent tone. Ultimately, it may appeal to those who appreciate a more offbeat and daring approach to comedy, but it may leave others feeling disconnected and uncomfortable.

With a rating of 5 out of 10, the film offers a mix of over-the-top humor, strong lead performances, and a distinctive approach to the typical high-school comedy genre.

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