Tow
The brief
Stephanie Laing turns what sounds like a Kafka nightmare into something surprisingly hopeful, watching Rose Byrne navigate bureaucratic hell with a mix of fury and dark humor that keeps you rooting for her even when the system seems designed to crush her. The pacing builds like a pressure cooker as small victories get swallowed by bigger setbacks, but Byrne's performance anchors every moment with raw determination that never feels performative. It's angry without being preachy, and the supporting cast (especially an unexpectedly grounded Demi Lovato) adds layers without cluttering the focus. Perfect for anyone who loved Sorry to Bother You's blend of social commentary and absurdist edge, or anyone who's ever wanted to burn down the DMV.
The verdict
If you enjoy darkly comic takedowns of broken systems and can appreciate Rose Byrne's powerhouse performance carrying you through bureaucratic absurdity, this is essential viewing that balances rage with surprising hope. If you prefer straightforward narratives without Kafkaesque frustration or need clear resolutions to systemic problems, the deliberately maddening pace and institutional critique will likely test your patience.
Watch with
- 👤 Solo viewing for maximum impact
- 👥 Friends who love social commentary
- ⚠️ May frustrate those seeking lighter fare
Heads up
- Homelessness and poverty themes (frequent)
- Systemic injustice and bureaucratic abuse (moderate)
- Financial stress and desperation (frequent)
Credits
- Director
- Stephanie Laing
- Cast
- Rose Byrne, Dominic Sessa, Demi Lovato, Ariana DeBose, Simon Rex, Octavia Spencer, Corbin Bernsen
Official synopsis
After her car is towed and she is left with a shocking $21,634 tow bill, an unhoused woman wages a relentless
The Double
Make a night of it
Pair this with You Were Never Really Here (2017)
Both follow damaged protagonists fighting corrupt systems through personal missions.
Total runtime: 1h 45m + 1h 29m = 3h 14m
