Comedy
United States of America
Shoplifters of the World is a coming-of-age comedy-drama written and directed by Stephen Kijak. Set in Denver in 1987, the film follows the story of four friends who are struggling to come to terms with the breakup of The Smiths, a band they all love and admire. Their lives are turned upside down when a local radio station is hijacked by a gun-wielding Smiths fan named Cleo (Helena Howard), who demands that the radio station plays only Smiths songs.
The film features a cast of talented young actors, including Ellar Coltrane as Dean, a college student who is unsure of his future; Joe Manganiello as Full Metal Mickey, a punk rocker who is struggling to keep his band alive; Sasha Lane as Sheila, Dean's girlfriend who is frustrated with his lack of ambition; and Olivia Luccardi as Traci, the group's wild child who is dealing with her own personal issues.
As the night wears on and the radio station standoff continues, Dean and his friends find themselves embroiled in a series of misadventures that force them to confront their fears, desires, and relationships. Along the way, they discover the power of music to unite and heal in the face of adversity.
Shoplifters of the World is a nostalgic tribute to the music of The Smiths and a heartfelt ode to the joys and pains of growing up. It is a must-see for anyone who loves coming-of-age stories and indie rock music.
