In an alternate present-day version of Oakland, black telemarketer Cassius Green discovers a magical key to professional success – which propels him into a macabre universe.
Sorry To Bother You called me with its "white voice" and analysed capitalism. Weird. Just plain weird. Absurdist fiction has never been so thematically involving and unconventional, until now. There's so much to unravel, so much to absorb, that one review just wouldn't suffice. Riley's directorial debut is bonkers, but one that should not be dismissed. It amplifies current themes through dark comedy, and for the most part works efficiently. However, the world of telemarketing that is portrayed is one that I felt disconnected towards. A young African-American telemarketer adopts a "white voice" allowing him to thrive in his job. As his career thrives, he soon gets swept up in a conspiracy. Riley's screenplay is admirable. Intelligently breaking racial stereotypes by conforming to them, allowing the dark humour and thematic narrative to be conveyed. Whether it be the fact that the general public would rather listen to white callers, or showing that not every black person can randomly rap. Its originality and unique style, whilst not accessible for everyone, allows the scathing humour to be at the forefront. However, it's the broader look on capitalism and slavery that succinctly appeals to current masses. Portraying puppeteers as well as their puppets. Fortunately, the stellar cast of Stanfield, Thompson and Hammer, made the absurd seem utterly realistic. Grounded performances with subtle comedic touches. Riley's visual style, particularly when cold calling customers, was refreshing and proves that innovative originality is still available. Still though, I have my doubts on the film in its entirety. After a specific plot point where Hammer's CEO character is "horsing" around, the story suddenly becomes disjointed. Perhaps it's the shocking revelation that follows, but I found myself struggling to get reconnected with the story. The characterisation and the pacing almost stops as the plot becomes weirder and more absurd. Also some of the humour fell flat for me. But the unique endeavour that Riley has lovingly crafted is one that should not be missed, for I am not sorry that Sorry To Bother You bothered me.
