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Boots Riley’s ‘I Love Boosters’ Premieres at SXSW to Strong Early Notices

Critics praise Keke Palmer and the film’s audacious design and score as Neon sets a May 22 theatrical rollout.

Overview

  • Early reviews describe a surreal, anti-capitalist heist comedy that skewers fashion consumerism, labor exploitation and branding culture.
  • The story follows three Bay Area boosters targeting a billionaire designer, with sci‑fi flourishes including a teleportation device and a China-set supply‑chain thread.
  • Keke Palmer’s lead turn draws widespread acclaim, with support from Naomi Ackie, Taylour Paige, Demi Moore and Poppy Liu, plus notable appearances by Will Poulter, Don Cheadle, LaKeith Stanfield and Eiza González.
  • Critics single out eye-popping production and costume design, handmade effects like stop‑motion and miniatures, and a propulsive Tune‑Yards score as standout elements.
  • Several outlets note the film’s ambition and energy even as some find the later stretch overstuffed or less cohesive.