Sorry to Bother You

An absurdist gagfest set in a parallel universe, making social observations about racial disparity and blue collar struggle may look like a hard sell on paper, but first-time director Boots Riley has fashioned an intriguing film with a message as well as mirth. Lakeith Stanfield stars as a young black man persuaded to adopt a "white" voice while working at a call centre, and soon finds himself as the figurehead of a radical group facing off to big business. The premise escalates into outlandish fantasy that occasionally risks losing sight of its intentions, but Stanfield's bumbling charm, along with spirited support from Danny Glover, Terry Crews and Jermaine Fowler, helps maintain a disciplined narrative. It may sag a little in its final third, but it's still one of the most original comedies in years.