Tales & Tomes

Spoiler-Free Synopsis

Bottoms (2023), directed by Emma Seligman, is an unapologetically bold teen comedy. It is hilariously offbeat and flips the high school genre on its head. The film follows PJ (Rachel Sennott) and Josie (Ayo Edebiri). They are two awkward high school friends. They start a self-defense club for girls in an absurd attempt to meet cheerleaders. What begins as a chaotic plan quickly spirals into a mix of empowerment, absurdity, and razor-sharp satire.

The movie doesn’t take itself too seriously and that’s its charm. It’s filled with outrageous humor and wild plot twists. There is also an undercurrent of genuine commentary about friendship, queerness, and what it means to take up space unapologetically.

My Review

There’s something electric about Bottoms. It feels like a cult classic the moment it starts—a mix of Mean Girls meets Fight Club, but filtered through Emma Seligman’s distinct comedic lens. The tone is over-the-top in the best way possible: everything is exaggerated, from the violence to the awkward teenage bravado, yet it all feels strangely real in its emotional core.

Rachel Sennott and Ayo Edebiri absolutely shine here. Their chemistry is so effortless that even the most ridiculous scenes feel grounded by their authenticity. Sennott brings her signature chaotic energy, while Edebiri delivers impeccable comedic timing with just the right touch of sincerity. Together, they carry the film’s heart, two weirdos trying to find belonging in a world that often misunderstands them.

What makes Bottoms stand out isn’t just the humor (though the laughs come fast and hard), it’s the craft behind it. The pacing is sharp, the script is clever, and the direction feels intentional even in its chaos. The stylized violence and absurdity are clearly part of the satire, it’s not just for shock value. Seligman uses camp and exaggeration to make pointed statements about gender. She also comments on social hierarchies and performative allyship. All this is achieved while keeping the tone light and fun.

Visually, the movie pops with color and energy. The score and soundtrack perfectly match the manic teenage energy. This gives the whole film a sort of anarchic rhythm. It keeps you engaged from start to finish. It’s loud, weird, and wonderfully unapologetic.

It’s easy to see why Bottoms became a standout from 2023, it’s a queer comedy that refuses to cater to mainstream expectations, instead reveling in its absurdity and heart.

My Favorite Part

Without giving away spoilers, one of my favorite moments is the final showdown. It’s chaotic, violent, and ridiculous. Yet, the moment is so satisfying. It perfectly captures the essence of this movie. The film is about empowerment through absurdity. It showcases friendship through chaos. It also highlights the joy of fully embracing your weirdness.

Recommendation

If you love smart, chaotic comedies that don’t play by the rules, Bottoms is absolutely worth your time. It’s a riot from start to finish, powered by stellar performances and a refreshingly queer, feminist lens.

That said, this movie won’t be for everyone. Its humor is dark, absurd, and self-aware—so if you prefer straightforward comedies, this might feel a bit too unhinged. But for those who appreciate satire, wild storytelling, and a little cinematic chaos, Bottoms hits hard (literally).