Forbidden Fruits (SXSW Review)

I feel like we have a new cult classic hit, and it’s so fruitful. Even though I’m probably not their target audience, that does not mean that I didn’t absolutely love Forbidden Fruits. A movie that people are calling a mix between Mean Girls and The Craft. Although I do see the comparison, I think this movie is its own thing and absolutely delivers something fresh and new. It is absolutely clever in the way it tells its story and super engaging. The biggest aspect that makes this movie special, is the ensemble cast that brings so much color, flavor, and spark to the movie. Apple, Cherry, Fig, and Pumpkin is the fruit basket we have all been waiting for. Lili Reinhart leads this ensemble in this heart-racing thrill ride that takes a ton of great turns and has some fun twists towards the end. Victoria Peretti and Alexandra Shipp bring so much to the table as well. They all had their own personalities, and it shined bright on screen. Lola Tung is a force to not reckon with, and it was so awesome to see her in a role that shows off how great of an actress she is. Together, they ooze magic and command every scene. Forbidden Fruits is stylistic, a trend-setter, badass, and overall spectacular. When the horror eventually hits, it hits hard as well. This is a perfect movie to let loose and just enjoy the journey it takes you on. Witches never looked so good!

I do have to say that this story played out a lot differently in my head. All I knew going in was the synopsis of the movie and nothing else. I did, however, see the poster and knew this movie would become something special. The energy around the movie felt electric. Although I thought this movie would lean more to the horror genre, it is actually a scarier look at something more frightening: retail group friendships. The great thing about this movie is the nostalgic feeling of being at the mall. Working a retail job has many horrors in itself, and this movie explores the craziness of sales, wishing bad omens on people, and trying to be there for your friend group in any way possible. From toxic relationships, rules to abide by, and making quotas, Forbidden Fruits delivers us a mean look at it all. Pay no mistake, it is done in a fun way that keeps you hooked. The movie is often very funny, has you smiling, and makes you understand how cool this group is and makes you want to join this stellar coven. You get the motivations behind all the characters. The cool aspect of the story is seeing these characters begin to find their individualism, but hide it from each other to be part of this unconventional friend group. The fruits are powerful and terrifying. The coolest of the cool.  You don’t want to be on their bad side, to say the least.

There is so much to say about the cast, but there are so many other people responsible for making this movie as amazing as it is. Meredith Alloway directed Forbidden Fruits and nailed the vibe. You can see the consistency of what this movie is supposed to be from start to finish. The pacing and storytelling felt fluid and made me want more. We have the original idea coming from a genius named Lily Houghton. The collaboration of a lifetime. Of course, we also have one of my favorite storytellers producing as well, who is none other than Diablo Cody. The story is what makes this movie so appealing. There will be so many people who will watch this movie and see themselves in it. Protagonists that you are rooting for, even when they aren’t doing the nicest of things. Empowerment that is visible and celebrated. Seeing these characters grow and see their own issues that they have to confront, worked beautifully. Which makes for the third act a wild and crazy time. When the mayhem starts, it never lets go. The movie then delivers the horror and does it with ferocity. There are some great witch moments throughout, and seeing what happens at the end just made me smile. It is brutal, but the necessary climax this story deserves. I wanted more and more, and that’s one of the best things a movie can do for someone.

Overall, Forbidden Fruits was a movie that I did not expect and ended up loving what it was. Expectations can often lead to a negative effect on a viewing experience. Watching trailers, teasers, and posters can often sway you a certain way. I’m so happy with what this movie ended up being. Like I stated before, I think this movie will become a hit and a classic that many people will come and revisit. Jennifer’s Body, Ginger Snaps, and Forbidden Fruits. A monumental movie that will rewrite someone’s whole personality watching. An impact that will stand the test of time. I hope that this movie gets all the love it deserves. The set design of the mall/store, costume design, and overall craftsmanship was gorgeous to look at. This movie pops and will suck you into this world. Forbidden Fruits is one of those movies that you watch and think about it days after. The more you think about the movie, the themes, and execution, the more you fall in love with it. A movie that probably works better and better with every rewatch. If you haven’t seen this movie yet, what are you waiting for? See it at the theaters as soon as you can.

Rating: 88/100

Photos From SXSW