Roommates
When shy college freshman Devon asks cool-girl Celeste to be her roommate, a blossoming friendship quickly spirals into a war of passive aggression.
Trailer
Review
Chandler Levack’s "Roommates" is a sharp, often hilarious deep dive into the passive-aggressive warfare that can define a college living situation. The film opens with a deceptively simple premise: shy, rule-following Devon (Sadie Sandler) asks effortlessly cool, messy Celeste (Chloe East) to be her roommate. What follows is a masterclass in escalating tension, where dirty dishes and borrowed clothes become weapons in a battle for control. Levack, known for her indie sensibilities, directs with a keen eye for the absurdity of mundane conflicts. The script crackles with authentic dialogue, capturing the way a simple passive comment—like Celeste’s “Oh, you cleaned? That’s... nice”—can cut deeper than any scream. Sandler is a revelation, perfectly embodying Devon’s quiet desperation, while East brings a magnetic, infuriating charm to Celeste. The supporting cast, including Billy Bryk as a clueless RA and Sarah Sherman as a chaotic floor mate, adds layers of comic relief. The film’s technical aspects are solid, with a color palette that shifts from warm, inviting tones to cold, sterile blues as the relationship sours. While the 108-minute runtime occasionally drags, the payoff—a brilliantly awkward confrontation—is worth the wait. "Roommates" is a relatable, cringe-comedy that will have you laughing while simultaneously feeling grateful for your own living situation.
Pros
- ✓Authentic, razor-sharp dialogue that perfectly captures passive-aggressive dynamics, making every exchange feel painfully real and funny.
- ✓Stellar performances from Sadie Sandler and Chloe East, who bring depth and nuance to characters that could easily have been one-note archetypes.
- ✓Clever directorial choices, like the use of color and framing to reflect the shifting power balance between the roommates, adding visual storytelling to the comedy.
- ✓A strong supporting cast, particularly Sarah Sherman, who steals scenes with her offbeat humor, providing relief from the central tension.
Cons
- ✗The middle act loses some momentum, with a few repetitive arguments that could have been tightened to maintain the film’s sharp pacing.
- ✗The resolution, while satisfying, feels slightly rushed, leaving some character arcs (especially Celeste’s) less explored than they deserve.
"Roommates" is a refreshingly honest and uproariously funny look at the small-scale conflicts that can define our closest relationships. Chandler Levack has crafted a comedy that is both specific in its college setting and universal in its exploration of boundaries, resentment, and the strange intimacy of shared space. The film’s greatest strength is its refusal to paint either roommate as a villain, instead showing how two well-meaning people can drive each other crazy. Sadie Sandler’s Devon is the heart of the story, but Chloe East’s Celeste is its soul—flawed, charismatic, and impossible to hate entirely. While the pacing stumbles slightly in the middle, the strong performances, smart writing, and a knockout final act make this a must-watch for anyone who has ever had a roommate—or wondered why they didn’t. It’s a comedy that earns its laughs through truth, and that’s the best kind.
🎯 Who Should Watch
College students, recent grads, and anyone who has ever navigated the tricky waters of cohabitation will find this painfully relatable and hilarious. Fans of character-driven comedies like 'Frances Ha' or 'Bridesmaids' will also enjoy it.
⭐ Standout Elements
The film’s standout element is its pitch-perfect portrayal of passive aggression, turning everyday annoyances into comedic gold. The chemistry between Sandler and East is electric, and Levack’s direction ensures every awkward silence and pointed comment lands with precision.
🎬 Overall Impact
A must-watch film that delivers on both entertainment and emotional depth.
📽️ This film represents exceptional filmmaking that deserves your attention.
