SHIFTER’s Kevin Bourne calls the Zellner Bros’ latest “peculiar” and “an acquired taste” in his Alpha Gang film review.
“Alpha Gang is an acquired taste.” – Kevin Bourne
There are many words you can use to describe Alpha Gang—strange, odd, peculiar, absurd, and funny. Yes, some of those words mean the exact same thing, but they all apply.
Written by David Zellner and co-directed by David and Nathan Zellner, known together as the Zellner Bros., Alpha Gang tells the story of a 1950’s, leather clad group of aliens, played by Léa Seydoux, Dave Bautista, Lily-Rose Depp, Kelvin Harrison Jr., Bae Doona, and Chris Pine. The only thing standing in the way of their alien invasion, is a new and improved set of aliens, led by Cate Blanchett, sent to replace them.
The absurdity surrounds these aliens learning to adapt to their human form, both physically and emotionally, as they learn to dance, engage in physical touch, communicate, eat, and take poops. Yes, you read that correctly. But as aliens, they choose to avoid all things that make humans weak like the plague, especially emotions. What they have is a life void of enjoyment, from sex to food, while these are the things that make human life beautiful.
The ridiculousness of the story lends to interesting performances from this ensemble cast as they look like adults, but behave like big children. These are the kinds of roles only daring actors would undertake and this cast did that very well. There was no weak link among the cast in this film.
But behind the over-the-top story and performances are deeper messages about the human condition as the aliens try to be something they’re not, and each go on a bit of a journey of self-discovery and individuality. The film reminds us of what really matters in life, and why we need to open ourselves up to fun and feeling.
The soundtrack, which includes 1950’s/1960’s rock played on a juke box and up-tempo 80’s music played on a boom box, helps to reinforce this battle of the generations between these two sets of alien gangs, and leads to some awkwardly funny dance parties.
But depending on your sense of humor, Alpha Gang is an acquired taste. If you’re a fan of the Zellner Bros’ previous films, you will enjoy this one. If not? Well…
Yes, this film is fun, risky, impressively creative, and doesn’t take itself too seriously, but it may also leave viewers thinking everything from, “That was hilarious” to “What the heck did I just watch?” and “That was a complete waste of time.” Personally, I wouldn’t blame you if you think the latter.
Kevin Bourne is SHIFTER’s editor-in-chief and Senior Arts & Entertainment Reporter focusing on film & TV, music, and fashion. He was named one of 340 international voters for the Golden Globe Awards and a Tomatometer-Approved Critic by Rotten Tomatoes.
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