Booksmart is a sharp, heartfelt, and surprisingly emotional coming-of-age comedy that flips the classic “party movie” formula on its head. Directed by Olivia Wilde in her feature debut, the film follows two academic overachievers who realize—far too late—that they may have done high school all wrong.
Detailed Summary
The Perfect Plan That Wasn’t
Molly Davidson (Beanie Feldstein) and Amy Antsler (Kaitlyn Dever) are best friends who have spent all of high school laser-focused on grades, extracurriculars, and college admissions. On the last day of school, Molly discovers that many of her classmates—whom she dismissed as slackers—are also heading to elite universities.
This realization shatters Molly’s worldview. Her conclusion is simple and dangerous: they could have had fun and still succeeded. Determined to “catch up” four years of missed experiences in one night, she convinces Amy to attend a graduation party.
One Night, Too Many Parties
Their mission sounds simple: go to Nick’s party, make an appearance, and finally live a little. Instead, the night becomes a chaotic odyssey across Los Angeles, involving:
- Multiple parties with wildly different social dynamics
- A bizarre but iconic boat sequence involving dolls and rich teens
- Awkward romantic tension and emotional confessions
- Repeated failures to reach the correct party
Each stop strips away the girls’ carefully constructed identities. Molly’s confidence turns into insecurity, while Amy—usually the quieter one—starts asserting herself.
Friendship Under Pressure
As the night escalates, so does the tension between Molly and Amy. Amy reveals that she’s been accepted to college abroad and plans to spend time traveling before starting school—news Molly takes as betrayal.
Their argument is the emotional core of the film. Molly’s identity has been built around achievement and control, while Amy has quietly grown beyond their shared bubble. The realization that they are growing apart is painful and unavoidable.
The Pool Party Confrontation
At Nick’s party, everything comes to a head. Molly drunkenly delivers a humiliating speech that exposes her insecurities and alienates her peers. Amy, hurt and overwhelmed, leaves.
This moment represents Molly’s rock bottom: she is no longer the smartest, the most admired, or the most composed person in the room.
Movie Ending
The next morning, Molly wakes up alone and emotionally wrecked. She seeks out Amy at her house, where they finally have an honest conversation. Molly apologizes—not just for the night, but for defining their friendship around achievement and fear.
Amy forgives her, but the film makes one thing clear: forgiveness doesn’t mean things will stay the same. Their paths are diverging, and that’s okay.
At graduation, Molly gives a calmer, self-aware speech that contrasts sharply with her earlier meltdown. Amy prepares to leave for her travels, and the two share a quiet, bittersweet goodbye.
In the final scene, Molly walks Amy to the airport. Their farewell is emotional but hopeful. There’s no grand promise to stay inseparable forever—just mutual respect and love. Molly watches Amy go, then turns and walks forward alone, finally comfortable with uncertainty.
The film ends not with romance or triumph, but with growth, acceptance, and the understanding that adulthood begins when control ends.
Are There Post-Credits Scenes?
No. Booksmart does not include any post-credits or mid-credits scenes. Once the credits roll, the story is complete.
Type of Movie
Booksmart is a coming-of-age teen comedy with strong elements of character-driven drama. While often hilarious, it prioritizes emotional honesty over traditional punchline humor.
Cast
- Beanie Feldstein – Molly Davidson
- Kaitlyn Dever – Amy Antsler
- Skyler Gisondo – Jared
- Billie Lourd – Gigi
- Diana Silvers – Hope
- Jason Sudeikis – Principal Brown
Film Music and Composer
The score was composed by Dan the Automator, blending electronic elements with indie vibes. The soundtrack also features contemporary artists that reinforce the film’s youthful, restless energy.
Filming Locations
The movie was filmed primarily in Los Angeles, California. The suburban homes, sprawling streets, and party locations emphasize the transitional nature of the story—characters caught between childhood comfort and adult uncertainty. The city itself feels like a maze, mirroring Molly and Amy’s emotional confusion.
Awards and Nominations
- Golden Globe nomination for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy
- Critics’ Choice Movie Award nomination for Best Comedy
- Widespread inclusion on “Best Films of 2019” lists
Though not an awards juggernaut, the film was a critical darling.
Behind the Scenes Insights
- Olivia Wilde encouraged improvisation to keep dialogue natural
- Many party scenes were filmed with handheld cameras to increase realism
- Billie Lourd’s character Gigi was intentionally exaggerated to feel almost surreal
- Wilde cited female-led comedies as historically underrepresented and fought for tonal balance
Inspirations and References
- Influenced by Superbad (2007) but intentionally subverted its gender dynamics
- Inspired by real-life overachieving students who felt socially “late”
- Draws thematic parallels to Lady Bird (2017) in its emotional honesty
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
No alternate ending was filmed, but several party scenes were shortened or removed to keep the runtime tight. Deleted material reportedly included extended moments with side characters, which were cut to maintain focus on Molly and Amy’s relationship.
Book Adaptations and Differences
Booksmart is not based on a book. It is an original screenplay, though it shares DNA with classic teen comedies and modern indie coming-of-age films.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- The slow-motion hallway walk revealing classmates’ college acceptances
- The unexpected animated doll sequence
- Molly’s disastrous poolside speech
- The quiet airport goodbye
Iconic Quotes
- “We’re 18 years old. We’re supposed to be having fun.”
- “You think you’re better than everyone.”
- “I love you, but I don’t want to be you.”
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- Several background posters reference feminist authors and activists
- Party locations subtly reflect each character’s personality
- The graduation scene includes callbacks to early classroom moments
Trivia
- Olivia Wilde was pregnant during part of post-production
- The script spent over a decade on Hollywood’s Black List
- Kaitlyn Dever insisted Amy’s sexuality be portrayed without trauma
Why Watch?
Watch Booksmart if you want a smart, funny, and emotionally grounded teen movie that respects its characters. It’s about ambition, friendship, and learning that life doesn’t follow a GPA-based formula.
Director’s Other Works (Movies)
- Don’t Worry Darling (2022)
