THE WRONG GIRLS
Starring: Kristen Stewart, Alia Shawkat, LaKeith Stanfield, Tony Hale, Zack Fox, Seth Rogen, Kumail Nanjiani, Kate McKinnon, and Geena Davis
Director: Dylan Meyer
BODE
Cheech & Chong. Jay & Silent Bob. Harold & Kumar. Could Frankie (Kristen Stewart) & Molly (Alia Shawkat) be the next iconic stoner duo? The Wrong Girls doesn’t actually aim too high when it comes to making the case, though that’s more a byproduct of the film’s shaggy-dog nature. Even when it places the two characters in the middle of an international conspiracy plot, writer-director Dylan Meyer keeps things comfortably in a chill position. On those terms, it’s agreeably charming. Stewart and Shawkat’s fun chemistry, with help from composer Ty Segall’s pulsating score, do just enough to carry it across the finish line regardless of when it stumbles.
PAIGE
Even though Kristen Stewart, Alia Shawkat, and the supporting cast appear to be having a blast in The Wrong Girls, I couldn’t get behind this eccentric stoner comedy. While some jokes land, most of them are just silly stupid. The story doesn’t flow organically, and the pacing feels forced throughout. Don’t get me wrong, I love a good stoner comedy, but this over-the-top premise just fell flat for me. Maybe if I was under the influence while watching I would have vibed with it more.
KATIE
The Wrong Girls is a wholesome and wacky film with all the hallmarks of classic stoner comedies. Whilst the plot becomes secondary to the chaos, it’s driven by its rich and distinct aesthetic, creative visuals, and the heart-warming friendship between protagonists Molly (Alia Shawkat) and Frankie (Kristen Stewart). Their relationship feels authentic, their performances are fantastic, and it genuinely feels like the cast had a great time making this movie. Not every joke or set-piece lands, but the film’s scrappy nature and anarchic sensibility are undeniably charming. Plus, I relish any opportunity to see Stewart on screen.
ADRIANO
When it comes to comedy, if you make me laugh, then all is forgiven. When I don’t laugh (or at least not consistently), every other issue becomes more obvious. The Wrong Girls is insane, and I admire a comedy whose cast is fully committed to its anarchy, but the laughs are very sparse. Plus, the relationship at the centre didn't compel me enough despite Kristen Stewart and Alia Shawkat’s best efforts. Honestly, this movie is like a bad weed strain: you may enjoy yourself at first, but it wears off pretty quickly.
