In her debut feature, writer-director Dylan Meyer serves up a delightful dose of absurdity with “The Wrong Girls,” an offbeat stoner comedy starring Kristen Stewart and Alia Shawkat. Taking cues from classics like “How High” and “Half Baked,” Meyer introduces us to an entertaining duo whose wild escapades lead them to unexpected psychic powers through experimental psychedelics. With a title that hints at chaotic fun, the film dives into the escapades of a burnout pair living in an LA apartment dubbed Casa de Chill Zone, all while provocatively juxtaposing their adventures with iconic stoner narratives.
A Hazy Quest for Cash
The plot of “The Wrong Girls” meanders through familiar territory, first establishing coherence before swiftly losing it again amid its California craziness. At the center is Frankie (Kristen Stewart) and Molly (Alia Shawkat), who find themselves desperate for rent money by the next day—a scenario reminiscent of F. Gary Gray’s 1995 stoner classic “Friday.” Their quest spirals into a chaotic odyssey, drawing parallels to “Harold and Kumar Go to White Castle.” As they navigate wild circumstances, including a mistaken identity twist involving a mercenary named Not Metal Head Dave (LaKeith Stanfield) and a group of Danish scientists, the film keeps viewers entertained with bizarre elements like squid brains and telepathic cats.
Dynamic Duo and Comedic Ensemble
While the movie might seem a tad loose, Meyer’s execution keeps it from feeling like a bad trip. The chemistry between Stewart and Shawkat shines through, with their characters slowly unfolding. Frankie, once a promising Stanford engineering student, is now a “Kwik Things” delivery driver, while the weed-inspired Molly aspires to be a chef, supported (or perhaps hindered) by her well-meaning boyfriend, Josh (Zack Fox). Their dynamic sets the stage for a series of colorful encounters, including Frankie’s confrontation with her new beau and his straitlaced doppelgänger, leading her into the chaos of mistaken identities.
Unexpected Powers and High Stakes
In a twist of fate, Frankie and Molly come into possession of experimental psychedelics derived from deep-sea squid. Unwittingly becoming test subjects, they uncover their newfound telepathic abilities, just as they decide to sell the illicit substance at a Stanford alumni event hosted by Martin (Tony Hale). The duo’s unexpected value doesn’t go unnoticed, attracting the attention of drug researchers, including the hilariously committed Dr. Olsen (Kate McKinnon). With McKinnon’s sharp comedic chops and Stanfield’s versatility, the ensemble is enriched by memorable performances, creating a delightful blend of humor and unexpected chemistry.
A Retro Vibe with a Cult Classic Feel
Visually, “The Wrong Girls” evokes a vivid ‘90s retro drug culture, articulated through Todd Banhazl’s saturated cinematography, hazy lighting, and whimsical angles. The score, infused with lively psych-surf rock by musician and composer Ty Segall, amplifies the sense of youthful rebellion, although some musical motifs may feel repetitive. Throughout the film, Meyer peppers in distinctly LA-centered humor, fostering a relatable environment, even if some jokes may resonate more with local audiences.
Emotional Depth amidst the Humor
Though it revels in its eccentricities, Meyer doesn’t shy away from infusing emotional moments. A poignant scene surrounding a farewell to a favorite restaurant—“Souper Starz Buffet” (a nod to the beloved Souplantation)—captures the nostalgia and humor inherent in Frankie and Molly’s journey, making their deeper connection relatable. Ultimately, “The Wrong Girls” emerges as an amusing cult classic, reminiscent of those films you’d gladly revisit on a lazy weekend. Its brilliant silliness and rough edges create a sense of authenticity that reflects Meyer’s vision. If you’re up for a good time, grab your favorite snack, light it up, and enjoy the ride.
