You want a refreshing, thought- provoking comedy that addresses race, sexuality and privilege? Look no further. Rick Famuyiwa’s indie caper is as good as coming-of-age tales get. Dope is intelligent without being didactic; inclusive without indulging in tokenism; and empowering while acknowledging the systems that attempt to keep teenagers – particularly teenagers of colour – in their place.
Malcolm (Shameik Moore Jr, nuanced and winning) is an inner city youth, who dreams of going to Harvard. But Malcolm isn’t a one-dimensional cipher or pity- case – he’s also a warm kid who loves ‘90s hip hop, is in a punk band, is an unabashed geek, and has an unbreakable bond with quick-witted lesbian Diggy (Kiersey Clemons) and jokester Jib (Tony Revolori, The Grand Budapest Hotel). Amidst struggles to avoid school bullies, get his crush (Zoe Kravitz) to notice him, and defend passions and ambitions dismissed by others as “white stuff ”, Malcolm also finds himself in accidental possession of a drugs stash that he has to get rid of – and fast.
The caper elements of Dope are
weird and rambunctious, and the fun factor is amplified by the killer soundtrack. However, the drug plot is just one event in a free-wheeling coming-of-age tale. Dope is snappy and heartfelt, with love and smarts to spare.