Exploring Spiritual Liberation in *F*cktoys*
After a pivotal moment in her life, when AP loses a tooth, she seeks clarity from a tarot reader in Annapurna Sriram’s bold feature debut, *F*cktoys*. The tarot cards—depicting an upright Sun, a Five of Cups, and the Hanged Man—deliver troubling predictions. According to her guide, played by Big Freedia, AP (portrayed by Sriram herself) is under a curse. However, she also learns that with a thousand dollars and a sacrificial offering, she might be able to reverse her luck.
A Journey through Trashtown
After its acclaimed premiere at SXSW, where it earned a special jury prize in the narrative feature category, *F*cktoys* follows AP on a tumultuous quest for spiritual emancipation. Set in the fictional realm of Trashtown, U.S.A., the narrative unfolds with capricious reunions, unexpected interactions, and thrilling moments of danger. Sriram takes creative risks by intertwining John Waters’ provocative sensibilities with themes from the astrology movement, embracing a lifestyle of revelry that challenges the conservative ideals of contemporary society. Much like *Pink Flamingos*, *F*cktoys* relishes in its unapologetic exploration of societal taboos.
Encounters and Revelations
Initially shaken by the news of her misfortune, AP postpones immediate action and heads to a wild house party, where she engages in risqué activities, including providing a client with a golden shower. Here, she reconnects with her friend Danni (played by Sadie Scott), who, intrigued by AP’s profession, decides to take on her own client. Their comical appointment with the self-centered artist James Francone, portrayed by Brandon Flynn, showcases Sriram’s sharp critique of the power imbalances present in celebrity culture.
A Whimsical Narrative Structure
In contrast to traditional fairytales, where sex work is portrayed as a Cinderella story, *F*cktoys* resembles an *Alice in Wonderland*-esque tale. Sriram’s film adopts an associative, non-linear storytelling style, with each episode playing out like a unique vignette. Collaborating with cinematographer Cory Fraiman-Lott and production designer Nichole McMinn, Sriram crafts visually arresting scenes that burst with personality, capturing the essence of each trashy yet compelling moment.
Complex Relationships and Reflections
During her journey, AP encounters Robert (Damian Young), a recurring client who reveals his own insecurities while projecting them onto her. As a married man, he tries to offer AP advice in a moment of vulnerability post-interaction, about her lack of job security and health benefits, suggesting he can assist her financially. However, when faced with the opportunity to truly support her, he becomes anxious, illustrating the complexities in their transactional relationship.
A Debaucherous Gathering
In her ongoing pursuit of funds, AP decides to attend an extravagant party populated by the affluent. This scene, replete with glimmering red decor and a bizarre array of guests, invokes memories of Waters’ early work with Divine. By employing exaggerated close-ups and erratic camera angles, Sriram emphasizes the absurdity of wealthy attendees lamenting their discomfort in a politically charged climate.
Heart Amidst the Chaos
While *F*cktoys* is laden with humor and shock value, it simultaneously dives deep into more sincere themes of love and longing. Throughout her spiritual readings, various psychics mention the notion of a “twin flame,”a person AP is believed to have encountered in a previous life. This idea leads AP to linger on the connection with Danni, transforming the nature of their relationship. One poignant moment comes as the duo rides a motorcycle through town, their disheveled appearance reflecting the passage of time and their shared struggles. These tender instances impart an unexpected emotional depth to the film, allowing viewers to connect with the characters on a more profound level.