Film Review – Forbidden Fruits (2026)

      Forbidden Fruits, 2026.

      Directed by Meredith Alloway.

      Featuring Lili Reinhart, Lola Tung, Victoria Pedretti, Alexandra Shipp, Emma Chamberlain, Gabrielle Union, Austin Ball, Charlie Henry Larsen, Siddharth Sharma, Zack Thompson, and Celine Dion.

      SYNOPSIS:

      In a mall store, Apple leads a secret witch cult alongside co-workers Cherry and Fig. The arrival of new employee Pumpkin challenges their sisterhood, compelling them to face their inner darkness or face violent consequences.

      There are straightforward reference points for the campy, coven-satirical film Forbidden Fruits, co-written and directed by Meredith Alloway, but these connections underplay the distinctive voice and contemporary message of this mix of comedic witch sisterhood and unsolved mysteries.

      As part of a much-needed trend, this film focuses on societal performativism, particularly addressing a specific kind of feminism that originated from a place of empathy and betrayal but has since evolved into something toxic and controlling. However, it's important to note that the film does not present an antifeminist argument; it starts with a woman throwing a cup of hot coffee into the car next to hers to scald the man lewdly staring at her at a stoplight, before she enters the shopping mall where most of the story unfolds (the film is also based on a stage play by Lily Houghton, who assisted in the adaptation), much to the audience's satisfaction for her assertiveness.

      This woman is Apple (Lili Reinhart), a retail worker at a seemingly upscale clothing store called Free Eden, who spends extra hours after closing with her friends Cherry (Victoria Pedretti, who brings a humorous ditzyness) and Fig (Alexandra Shipp, the smartest of the trio with a keen interest in state birds) practicing witchcraft and airing grievances against the patriarchy. For them, it feels like paradise. At one point, they drink from a cowgirl boot encrusted with so much jewelry that it resembles Thanos' Infinity Gauntlet more than a shoe meant for walking. The fashion throughout the film pops with vibrant colors and character, aligning with the store's luxurious theme.

      This all unfolds during an initiation ceremony for the new member, Pumpkin (themed to complete the fruit motif and representing autumn), portrayed by Lola Tung, who is an employee at a different store and shows keen interest in joining the group. Initially, the humor leans into either the silliness or dedication towards Apple, who appears to be helping Cherry and Fig escape difficult pasts while trying to keep them grounded and away from further harm.

      This comedic approach, however, delves into the territory of "all men are evil" while suggesting that Apple is wielding feminism and strict sisterhood enforcement to exert unhealthy control over the others, stifling their independence. There are rules for joining their coven, including a ban on texting men without emojis; this enforcement is both absurd and highlights how far their leader will go to prevent male interference.

      As Pumpkin grows closer to Cherry and Fig, the illusion of sisterhood becomes apparent, revealing that both women are growing disenchanted with Apple's teachings. Cherry enjoys romantic encounters, recognizing the troubling objectification inherent in many interactions with men (she is a complex character, making her sincere moments with Victoria Pedretti stand out amid the humor), while Fig is open to a relationship with a well-meaning man now that she's worked towards a promising career.

      This interesting social commentary and its contradictions are further complicated by the mystery surrounding Pickle (Emma Chamberlain), the former fourth member of the coven, whose tragic exit led to a supervisor (Gabrielle Union) being assigned to oversee Free Eden. As secrets are uncovered and Apple's control becomes more frantic, Forbidden Fruits escalates into ultraviolence. While the practical effects are impressive, they sometimes feel excessive, suggesting a shift in focus that detracts from prior witty elements, especially in its third act, which features a disappointing cliffhanger and mid-credits scene.

      The bold social commentary is too piercing to entirely undermine the film, but Forbidden Fruits occasionally strays from Meredith Alloway's vision, who has otherwise created a sharply satirical and entertaining critique of performative culture.

      Flickering Myth Rating – Film: ★ ★ ★ / Movie: ★ ★ ★

      Robert Kojder