Not Okay

Not Okay review written by Zianna Weston

Written and directed by: Quinn Shephard

Rating: Most Excellent

Danni Sanders and her over-the-top manicure are sick of scrolling social media and seeing glamorous influencers and their picture-perfect lives. No one wants to hang out with her and rather than take this moment to reflect inwardly to see if her entitlement or lack of empathy might be to blame, she takes another route. She puts her photoshop skills to work and fakes a trip to Paris. But the plot thickens when Paris is hit by terrorist bombs just minutes after she posts a photo “at” the arc de Triomphe. The newfound attention and influx of Instagram followers she receives after this tragedy is intoxicating. Rather than come clean, Danni doubles down on her lie and becomes an outspoken “survivor”. 

This film immediately warns you that it stars an unlikeable female protagonist, but even with a warning, some of Danni’s tone-deaf behavior is shockingly appalling. Seriously, the cringe is palpable. And while some moments feel exaggerated, Danni is a compelling character because she feels real. We’ve all had moments with people who are so privileged that they are completely incapable of forming authentic connections with others because they don’t understand what life is like outside of their sheltered experiences.

Not Okay provides a scathing social commentary on influencer culture, racial and economic privilege, antiquated social policies, and cancel culture. While the film's subject matter is heavy, the overall tone is light and sprinkled with humor and Gen Z fashion inspo.

Dylan O’Brien shines as the douchey love interest. Constantly shrouded in a cloud of vape and bullsh*t, he toes the line perfectly between likable and detestable. We see why Danni is interested in him, but at no point in time did I ever root for them to get together. Honestly, I wouldn’t wish his self-serving interest on anyone.

Zoey Deutch gives a layered performance that allows the audience to empathize with Danni without supporting her. It’s hard to watch a character fail. It hurts. But this isn’t a story that ends nicely. It’s a solid reminder that our choices have consequences that can be irrevocable. You can learn from your mistakes, but that doesn’t mean that you can undo them.

Mia Isaac is the standout performance, playing Rowan. She is the film's moral compass without ever being preachy. Her ability to play tough vulnerability is impressive. I know her character is fictional but I finished this film wishing I could be friends with her irl because I was so inspired by her.

Overall, this was a fun watch that brought me through an emotional spectrum and left me with lots to think about. Not Okay will be coming to Hulu on July 29th.