“Booksmart” was Olivia Wilde’s directorial debut on the big screen, and Sarah Haskins, Susanna Fogel, Katie Silberman, and Emily Halpern wrote the screenplay. This all-female power team did not disappoint. They brought the audience back to high school for a night of mischief. 

If you’re looking for light in this darkness, ‘Booksmart’ is the film for you. The story follows two soon to be high school graduates, who embark on one last adventure. Molly (Beanie Feldstein) is an overbearing goody-two-shoes who has spent her high school career striving for perfection. She has a crush on Nick, the untouchable class Vice President. And her best friend, Amy (Kaitlyn Dever) who is less wound up but falls under the iron fist of her friend, Molly. Amy has a crush on Ryan, a skater-girl. During their class, they find out Nick is having a party at his aunt’s house. Their mission is to have one night of fun and pursue their crushes. The night gets to the point where they call their teacher Miss. Fine (Jessica Williams) that adds an element of surprise for these girls. She is the only one at the school who sees past the girl’s flaws. Between the three of them, they all break barriers of their normal behavior. What is supposed to be a “let-loose” night turns into the craziest night they’ve ever had. 

This ensemble of players beautifully brought the story to life. Feldstein and Dever made the perfect dynamic duo. Their chemistry came to life naturally, without hesitation. Feldstein brought ambition, drive, and motivation to the team. Dever was the voice of reason, a fresh new perspective, and remained hopeful despite the many obstacles throughout the night. They built off each other with their jokes, which was a mix of dark humor and innocence. The two also were a symbol of high schoolers’ past present and future. They taught the audience not to take things so lightly, embrace the little moments and that you’re only young once. But among all those lessons, they emphasized the importance of friendships. Especially in times like today, we live in a busy life. We never stop and really appreciate the friends we have. And when we part ways is when we really treasure those moments. 

Olivia Wilde did a superb job directing this film. Her acting experience drove the film to be believable, funny, and heart-warming. She brings this journey to life with the spirit of her own creative uniqueness.

The irony of this film, it mirrors the storyline of ‘Superbad’ starring Jonah Hill, whose sister is Beanie Feldstein. Wilde gave new light to the energy and comedy that ‘Superbad’ brought to audiences. And both films will now be forever a go-to for comedic relief. 

‘Booksmart’ is definitely a film worth watching. These characters and their stories are relatable and will bring light in these dark times. For one night, these girls push aside the pressure to succeed and let loose. This a reminder to us all, that no matter what life serves us, to take a minute and smell the roses.