Chelsea Peretti’s “First Time Female Director” Marks a Dazzling, Disruptive Debut at SBIFF – Review

In an era where the conversation around gender dynamics in the entertainment industry is more pronounced than ever, Chelsea Peretti’s directorial debut, “First Time Female Director,” emerges as a striking commentary wrapped in layers of humor and stark realism. Premiering at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, this film is a whirlwind exploration of the trials and tribulations faced by women carving out space for themselves in traditionally male-dominated fields, with the theater business serving as the battleground.

Peretti, who not only directs but also writes and stars in the film, delivers a narrative so deeply personal and reflective of her own experiences that it blurs the lines between fiction and documentary. She plays Sam, a playwright who steps into the directorial shoes at Glendale’s Regis Theater, embarking on a journey to bring her dream production to life. However, the path is fraught with systemic obstacles and personal challenges, notably from a cast resistant to her authority simply because they are unaccustomed to female leadership.

The ensemble cast is a powerhouse of comedic talent, including Amy Poehler, Kate Berlant, Benito Skinner, Megan Stalter, Megan Mullally, Blake Anderson, Jak Knight, Natasha Leggero, Xosha Roquemore, Max Greenfield, Andy Richter, Tim Heidecker, and Brad Hall. Each actor brings a unique flavor to the mix, contributing to the film’s chaotic yet authentic portrayal of the theater world.

“First Time Female Director” is a microcosm of the entertainment industry, highlighting not just the gendered challenges but also the racial disparities that complicate the narrative of success and failure. Sam’s journey from an optimistic newcomer to a beleaguered director reflects the harsh reality many women face in the industry. Yet, Peretti’s script does not shy away from critiquing its protagonist’s blind spots, particularly regarding race, adding layers of depth to the film’s exploration of privilege and systemic bias.

The film’s style, reminiscent of a feature-length “Community” episode, may divide audiences with its eclectic pacing and narrative structure. However, this approach underscores the film’s self-awareness and meta-commentary on storytelling and directing. Despite its occasional narrative meanders, “First Time Female Director” succeeds in capturing the frenetic pace and passion of theater production, anchored by Peretti’s comedic brilliance and a committed cast.

At its core, “First Time Female Director” is both a critique and a celebration of the creative process, offering an unfiltered look at the highs and lows of making art under the scrutinizing lens of gender expectations. It’s a film that is as much about the journey of its protagonist as it is about the industry it seeks to dissect. Chelsea Peretti’s debut is a commendable entry into the directorial arena, promising a future of insightful, boundary-pushing filmmaking.

Scheduled for exclusive streaming on The Roku Channel in 2024, “First Time Female Director” is not just a film but a statement—a call to reflect on the dynamics of power, gender, and creativity in the spaces we cherish and criticize. It’s a must-watch for anyone invested in the ongoing dialogue about representation and equity in entertainment, signaling a hopeful, albeit complex, path forward.

Title: First Time Female Director
Festival: Santa Barbara International Film Festival

Director-screenwriter: Chelsea Peretti
Cast: Chelsea Peretti, Amy Poehler, Kate Berlant, Benito Skinner, Megan Stalter, Megan Mullally, Blake Anderson, Jak Knight, Natasha Leggero, Xosha Roquemore, Max Greenfield, Andy Richter, Tim Heidecker, Brad Hall
Running time: 1 hr 37 min