Netflix's Roommates: A Surprisingly Sharp College Comedy
In the early days of Adam Sandler's Netflix deal, the output was often criticized as lackluster, with films like The Ridiculous 6 and Sandy Wexler failing to impress. However, as Sandler's production company Happy Madison has evolved, it has found a winning formula by blending sweetness with substance, avoiding the pitfalls of empty comedy.
A Shift Toward Smarter Storytelling
Recent projects like the animated adventure Leo and the basketball drama Hustle showcased Sandler's growth, with Hustle earning praise for his performance. The 2023 coming-of-age comedy You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah highlighted Happy Madison's potential as a shepherd for younger filmmakers telling authentic teen stories. Now, with Roommates, Sandler's eldest daughter Sadie stars in another success, a college comedy that Netflix has oddly kept under wraps from critics.
Hiding films from reviewers is a common tactic for studios wary of quality concerns, but Roommates deserves better. In an era where streaming comedies often set a low bar, this film stands out as a gem worth celebrating rather than burying.
The Heart of Roommates: Friendship Dynamics
Structured like The War of the Roses and narrated by SNL's Sarah Sherman as a college dean, Roommates explores the collapse of a friendship between Devon (Sadie Sandler) and Celeste (Chloe East) during their freshman year. Devon is portrayed as a relatable character who never quite fit in during high school, described as a "thirsty little freak" and often overlooked. In contrast, Celeste exudes an effortless, magnetic energy that draws others in.
The script, penned by SNL writers Jimmy Fowlie and Ceara O'Sullivan, masterfully orchestrates a gradual breakdown fueled by believable conflicts rather than over-the-top drama. Issues like unpaid Venmo requests, shady Instagram stories, and tensions over family wealth create a realistic crackle of unease. This approach echoes the nuanced friendship disintegration seen in shows like Insecure, avoiding clear villains and heroes until a later, more hackneyed plot twist shifts the narrative.
Balancing Act: Specificity vs. Familiarity
Roommates navigates a tension between the specific and the obvious, the relatable and the zany. While it mostly succeeds, it occasionally falls into familiar traps, such as a predictable scene involving an exploding turkey and Carol Kane. The film reflects a battle between Sandler's dual influences as a producer, with crude elements used organically rather than as mere attention-grabbers. However, the filmmakers would benefit from trusting their detailed character work over broader comedic beats.
At the core, Sadie Sandler and Chloe East deliver compelling performances. Sandler brings natural charm to the awkward Devon, while East captivates as the enigmatic Celeste, showcasing versatility after her role in Heretic. Director Chandler Levack's direction, though sometimes lacking dynamism, allows the actors to shine without distraction. Supporting roles from Nick Kroll and Natasha Lyonne as grounded parents add depth, despite some excessive cameos.
A Standout in the Streaming Landscape
While Roommates may not reach the iconic status of teen classics like Clueless or Mean Girls, it far surpasses the average streaming comedy. Its witty script, strong performances, and honest exploration of friendship make it a film that Netflix should promote, not hide. In a crowded market, Roommates offers a refreshing and engaging watch that deserves audience attention.
