The “freshman year” narrative is a cornerstone of cinematic history, stretching back to the silent era and serving as a launchpad for legendary comedic talents. The latest entry into this storied subgenre, Roommates, doesn’t attempt to change the fundamental blueprint of the campus comedy. Instead, it leans into a surprisingly macabre sensibility. Produced under the Happy Madison banner, this Netflix original takes the familiar trope of cohabitation gone wrong and pushes it toward a psychological edge rarely seen in the studio’s typical catalog. Directed by Chandler Levack, the film manages to balance slapstick roots with a narrative that feels both modern and menacing.
Story
The film utilizes a framing device centered on Sarah Sherman, who plays a campus Dean attempting to mediate a heated dispute between two students, played by Ivy Wolk and Storm Reid. To de-escalate their feud, the Dean recounts the cautionary tale of Devon and Celeste, two girls whose friendship spiraled into an all-out tactical war.
Devon (Sadie Sandler), a social outcast during her high school years, enters university with the desperate hope of finally belonging. During orientation week, she finds a kindred spirit in Celeste (Chloe East). While their initial bond is instantaneous, their transition into shared dorm life reveals cracks in the foundation. What starts as relatable friction—borrowed clothes and awkward “sexiled” moments—takes a sharp turn following a disastrous Thanksgiving break. As Celeste’s behavior begins to echo the obsessive energy of Single White Female, the plot descends into a dangerous game of escalation that moves far beyond simple pranks.
Performances
The success of Roommates rests heavily on the chemistry between Sadie Sandler and Chloe East. Both actresses excel at portraying the slow erosion of a friendship, moving from inseparable allies to bitter adversaries with convincing intensity. Sadie Sandler continues to prove her comedic instincts, while Chloe East brings a chilling commitment to her character’s shift toward the dark side.
The supporting cast is a treasure trove of comedic talent. Natasha Lyonne and Nick Kroll deliver some of the film’s best moments; their chemistry feels authentic and grounded, avoiding the cartoonish traps often found in ensemble comedies. Nick Kroll, in particular, showcases his range, blending his signature humor with moments of genuine pathos. Josh Segarra also shines in a role reminiscent of the classic “odd man out” characters traditionally played by David Spade, providing laughs through his sheer, isolated absurdity. Finally, the inclusion of veterans like Carol Kane and various Saturday Night Live alumni adds layers of professional polish to the film’s chaotic energy.
Behind the Lens
Director Chandler Levack, who has long voiced her appreciation for the Happy Madison aesthetic in projects like I Love Movies, brings a unique perspective to the director’s chair. She successfully infuses the film with “Sandler-isms”—the shouting matches, the slapstick, and the heart—but filters them through a lens reminiscent of Heathers or Superbad.
Despite the R-rating and frequent profanity, the film maintains a certain PG-style innocence in its execution of gags, creating a slightly disjointed but fascinating tonal mix. While the Sherman-Reid-Wolk framing story occasionally stalls the narrative’s momentum, Levack’s direction ensures that the emotional core of Devon’s journey remains intact amidst the arson and absurdity of the third act.
Final Verdict
Is Roommates a mandatory addition to your watchlist? While its 105-minute runtime occasionally feels stretched, the film is a charmingly imperfect evolution of the college comedy. It serves as a fantastic showcase for Sadie Sandler and Chloe East, both of whom are clearly rising stars in the industry. It’s rare to see a contemporary comedy take such dark risks while remaining accessible to a broad audience. If you can handle a bit of grit with your laughs, this is a fun, high-stakes ride through the perils of higher education.
Roommates arrives exclusively on Netflix on April 17, 2026.
