Adventures in Success

I never write reviews, but I was so surprised by "Adventures in Success" that I don't want anyone else to let it pass them by. How do I describe this film? Imagine the idealistic but misguided followers of the NXIVM cult (but make them all super likeable), presented with the self-aware humor and cringe of the British version of "The Office". Then add some truly remarkable cinematography, a magnetic cast, and the beautiful scenery of summer in the Catskills: it all makes for a film that's immersive, funny, and oddly soothing to watch.

I have to admit that I went into this movie expecting it to revolve way more around graphic sex: the kind of thing that would be uncomfortable to watch with a group. I found the exact opposite: it is sweet, laugh-out-loud funny, and a genuinely touching character study. Totally appropriate for a movie night with friends.

Lexie Mountain is fantastic and perfectly cast as Peggy Appleyard, the enchanting leader of the "Jilling Off" organization, who seduces her "seekers" not through force or threats, but through something so subtle as a meaningful look that says "I see you. You belong. The work you are doing is tough but valuable." It goes beyond the whole "cult" thing: she's the queen bee in any friend group who is able to convince everyone that her way is best- that everything is fine, even when it's obviously not.

Yaz Perea is equally charming as Erica- a newcomer who isn't sure she totally believes in the cause, but can't deny the positivity and pleasure the group has brought to her life. The other ride-or-die seekers run the gamut from needy and quixotic, to strong-willed and hilarious. The film has so much to say about gender politics, friendships, and what it's like to try to find your way, your "place", and your "people". 10/10 all the way.

MOVIE REVIEW Adventures in Success 3 out of 5 stars

Genre: Adult Comedy Year Released: 2021 Runtime: 1h 38m Director: Jay Buim Where To Watch: March 8th on iTunes and Amazon Prime Video

The best part of reviewing screeners is that I've been introduced to so many films that I otherwise would've never seen. A lot of the movies I've been given access to are unique; they're independent films that are created from the passion of their cast and crew. With a big summer blockbuster, you pretty much know what you're getting yourself into. They have to appeal to the largest audience possible. With independent film, you get unique and creative experiences, so much so that some of my favorite movies of the last year are likely ones that most people have never heard of.

As I try to keep my reviews family-friendly, I will say that this film isn't aimed towards a family viewing experience. It's not right out a graphic film, but it covers many topics that some could find a little much. I really appreciated that it wasn't a "teen comedy" that genre has been done to death. I only use that comparison because if you didn't know better, you might mistake the synopsis for something other than what it is. "A sex-cult settles in the Catskills to build community and spread knowledge, led by their mystical female founder." They're on a mission to heal Mother Earth through pleasure.

I wasn't familiar with the film's cast, but there were memorable performances at every turn. I was excited to see where each scene would end up and connected to the majority of the characters without question. A successful movie needs a few essential parts, a believable cast, a well-written script that doesn't take you out of the moment, and a visual style that matches what the director is trying to express. This checked off all those boxes; it isn't for everyone, but if you're looking for a thought-provoking comedy that will leave you wanting more once the credits roll (good news, there is a post-credit scene), then this is the film for you! I do have to admit that I'm jealous that I didn't get to check it out during its premiere in Los Angeles at the Lumiere Music Hall. I feel this film would've been amplified by experiencing it with an audience around you.

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Where you want, just not up my pleasuredome. A film that comemorates the womens day of 2022(or semen-ly the 70's)the sucking in of sexual energy to make the women of the cult and the women of the world experience ''the come'', or orgasm or whatever. Its the cultish emphasismic jolts to make people aware about the 40'percenters that has never come to realise a come, so realax and release but not like this

usually films like this are fun at 2xffwd speed, even that wont happen to my grumpy old mind, the acts and production of this hippie hipster orgasmic quaker business is complete and utter garbage for the main stream viewer, and i know its all made in the name of sarcasm and irony, but its a rump that doesnt flash anything, nor even a real fake female orgasm, so why use 100 minutes on this amateur theater group,when you can explore the landscape yourself, and ''landscaping'' is a good way to start, that usually never backfires in the grumpy old mans oysterich. They shall have for the gadgets and clothing design and some of the filmographic quality format choices, but its not enough to sanctify this into a two'er. A no recommend.

This movie is hilarious, smart, and honestly a joy to watch. Beware 1 star reviews from men who clearly hate women and hate fun. Highly recommend and am super excited for what's next for Jay Buim.

Watch this film out of pure curiosity and expect to be captured by the utterly original story and performances. It is not what you expect at all. It takes a very special group of writers, producers, director, cast and crew to make an independent movie that actually surprises you and breaks through the mold.