"Bad Genius," directed by J. C. Lee and released in 2024, is a gripping thriller that delves into the complex world of high school cheating and systemic racism. The film stars Callina Liang, Taylor Hickson, and Samuel Braun in prominent roles.
The plot revolves around Lynn (Callina Liang), a gifted Asian American student at an elite high school, who tries to steal the answers to the S. A. T. To benefit from White students who are willing to pay for the information. The film explores the challenges faced by its characters of color, both financially and culturally, as they strive to achieve more than previous generations.
J. C. Lee's direction is notable for its frankness in addressing systemic racism in the United States. The film's suspense sequences are crafted in a clean, snappy manner, especially the climactic S. A. T. Heist, which requires a lot of moving parts and involves opponents who aren't easily fooled. The performances are varied, with Callina Liang delivering a defiant look in her eyes and Taylor Hickson and Samuel Braun helping make the complex plans to steal the S. A. T.
Overall, "Bad Genius" is a powerful film that stands out for its frankness in addressing systemic racism and the challenges faced by its characters of color. The film's ending is a bracingly vivid resolution, making it a memorable addition to Lee's filmography.
Rating: 8 out of 10.
