Unparalleled Brilliance: Boots Riley's Sorry To Bother You Follow-Up Exceeds All Expectations

I’m A Virgo is a truly unique television show that thrives on its eccentricity. With seven episodes of bizarre content, writer-director-creator Boots Riley has brought his vision to life in a fascinating way. The show's strength lies not in the acting or writing, but in the central ideas that take center stage.

The protagonist, Cootie (played by Jharrell Jerome), is an extraordinary character standing at 13 feet tall. Raised by his parents Lafrancine (Carmen Ejogo) and Martisse (Mike Epps), he has been kept inside the house his entire life with the promise of freedom when he turns 21. However, as Cootie approaches his 19th birthday, he becomes increasingly restless and curious about the world beyond his confinement.

One day, Cootie overhears something that contradicts the information his parents have given him, sparking a newfound confidence to venture outside. He encounters a group of friends just outside his house who fully embrace him and take him on an unforgettable journey. However, being a 13-foot-tall Black man walking around Oakland comes with its challenges. When he catches the attention of the local superhero, The Hero (played by Walton Goggins), Cootie must decide whether to monetize his fame or use his size for justice.

Boots Riley's 2018 directorial debut, Sorry to Bother You, was an ambitious and unique anti-capitalist comedy infused with elements of body horror. His highly anticipated follow-up, I'm a Virgo, further solidifies Riley's distinct style and his intention to carve out his own path. While the themes explored in this film differ from his previous work, they still share a common thread, namely the downfall of capitalism and the inherent ostracization experienced by the Black community. From a filmmaking perspective, Riley stands out as a truly original voice. Perhaps his background in music contributes to this, as every aspect of the film feels like a product of a mind unburdened by the constraints of traditional filmmaking. Riley fearlessly throws everything at the wall, ready to see what sticks.

The question you should ask yourself before watching I’m A Virgo is whether you prefer straightforward themes or a more complex approach, as Riley avoids any hint of ambiguity. Jones and Lafrancine, played by Kara Young and Ejogo respectively, provide a comprehensive explanation that encompasses everything another film or TV show in the same genre would typically explore. However, Riley does not hold our hand or look down on us; instead, he creates his work on his own terms. This is reminiscent of Sorry to Bother You, where a similar distinction is made through a powerful monologue delivered by a female character. Young's direct critique of the police in America is so explicit that it surpasses even the thought-provoking speech given by Tessa Thompson in Sorry to Bother You, turning it into a mere puzzle in comparison.

I’m A Virgo showcases an array of visual tricks that captivate the audience. While other films have explored the concept of playing with scale, what sets this series apart is the seamless integration of the story and the concept. Occasionally, viewers may question the logistics of Cootie using a car for exercise and still being able to ride safely. However, the response from I’m A Virgo is simply, "Who cares?" These moments do not detract from the sheer delight experienced by the characters when they embark on their joyride. Additionally, Epps delivers an impeccable performance, effortlessly cracking jokes about his son's size while convincingly portraying a man genuinely concerned about the world's capabilities. Young's captivating speeches are accompanied by the stunning visual display of black fabric erupting from her back like butterfly wings, transforming the backdrop into a theatrical setting adorned with waves of white and gold tapestries. With the exception of some less impressive CGI in the flying scenes with The Hero on his super scooter, I’m A Virgo successfully overcomes its major technical challenge.

One cannot help but admire the vast scope of Riley's canvas in I’m A Virgo. Undoubtedly, the series will provoke divided opinions, as is often the case with challenging art. Yet, this is part of the allure of all seven episodes, each of which maintains a perfect length. The show effortlessly balances entertainment and social commentary, fearlessly presenting its ideas while genuinely portraying its main character. Brett Gray, known for his role in On My Block, delivers a delightful performance as Cootie's first friend Felix, evoking laughter, tears, and a desire to give him a friendly dap. Riley's continued brilliance shines through in I’m A Virgo, adding another exceptional work to their repertoire.

All seven episodes of I’m A Virgo will be available on Amazon Prime Friday, June 23.