REVIEW: Zoey Deutch Shines as Fast Talking Peg in “Buffaloed”
Growing up in a small town can be stifling, prompting young adults to search for ways out. Trying to leave home but remaining stuck is the theme of director, Tanya Wexler’s new film, Buffaloed, set in Buffalo, NY.
Peg (Zoey Deutch), is willing to do anything she can to get out of Buffalo, NY in Buffaloed. She’s spent her whole life working hard, getting good grades in school to get into a good college and say goodbye to Buffalo. Peg didn’t account for just how much college costs. She must find a way to make the money she needs and do it fast in order to reach the school of her dreams.Peg joins the world of debt collection and the further she gets into the business, the more she realizes leaving Buffalo may not be the dream she’s been looking for.
Zoey Deutch is great as the fast talking, quick-thinking Peg. Deutch put a lot of time and effort into crafting this character from her demeanor to Peg’s accent. Her character is responsible for the bulk of the film and Deutch makes it an enjoyable experience for the audience. There are moments Deutch breaks the fourth wall which can often be annoying but Wexler, does well to entwine that portion of the storytelling without it feeling unnatural.
Judy Greer plays Peg’s mom, Kathy, and Deutch and Greer are a hoot together. The back and forth dialogue between Peg and her mom is a testament to Deutch and Greer’s talents. Not only are they moving so quickly but they make it easy to keep up with their banter. Jai Courtney plays the debt collecting kingpin, Wizz, who will have you feeling grossed out from the second you meet him. There is nothing likeable about the character and that is the point. Courtney does not shy away from the sleaziness that surrounds this character, which makes his character a great villain to Deutch’s Peg.
This film won’t be for everyone, but it is enjoyable. It has witty dialogue and it’s fun to see Peg unravel the world of debt collecting, as well as how she creates her own business. Buffaloed is a great film to watch on a lazy afternoon or when you just want to relax for a little bit.
Grade: B-