SXSW Review: Fucktoys Offers a Relevant Critique of Capitalism with a Grindhouse Vibe

      Embodying the edgier spirit of Russ Meyers’ Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill!, Annapurna Sriram’s Fucktoys presents a strong critique of modern capitalism, particularly relevant in an era where billionaires impose stringent budgets on the middle and lower-middle class. Younger generations have been marginalized, dealing with the consequences of a significant wealth transfer, and unfortunately, some see them merely as objects for their fantasies. Essentially, if you're struggling in today’s economy, you might find yourself reduced to a "fucktoy." It’s clear that this film is neither suitable for work nor for polite society.

      Sriram stars as AP, a dominatrix operating in a post-apocalyptic world that has never recovered from the last storm. She collaborates with a group of punk rockers in derelict homes, where they crash, vent, and express their "art." While she isn't their leader, she's another lost soul trying to lift a curse she learns about when rapper Big Freedia reads her tarot cards on a boat in the bayou.

      Upon discovering the curse, she becomes determined to break it through a ritual that will cost her $1,000, which she lacks, triggering a series of events. Reconnecting with an old friend, Danni (Sadie Scott), while they both relieve themselves on a shared older client (Damian Young), the duo finds themselves complicit in AP’s bizarre mission, which leads them to the self-important TV star James Falcone (Brandon Flynn), who considers their activities as artistic endeavors akin to his watercolor creations. Everything seems to flow smoothly until James requests that Danni sign an extensive NDA regarding their interaction. Before long, AP and Danni are on the run.

      With a bold DIY style that draws from influences like John Waters, Gregg Araki, Anna Biller, and certain aspects of ’70s grindhouse cinema, Sriram’s debut is a joyously trashy and non-judgmental celebration of diverse lifestyles – to say the least. Yet, Danni and AP exhibit a palpable sweetness as they escape their troubled pasts, engaging with friends, clients, and AP’s mother, who works at a donut shop.

      Even at 100 minutes, the film’s adventure begins to feel lengthy, attempting to cram too much plot and atmosphere into a story that would benefit from a faster pace. The chemistry between Sriram and Scott anchors the film, with Scott delivering a layered performance that is both savvy and vulnerable. Despite any shortcomings, Fucktoys stands out as an impressive debut, paying tribute to its grindhouse origins while offering timely commentary on what the coming years may hold.

      Fucktoys premiered at SXSW 2025.