While much of the attention this week is on a major franchise release, a comedy starring Keke Palmer is also arriving in theaters. Directed by Boots Riley and led by Palmer, the upcoming comedy features an ensemble cast. The film has already drawn positive early reactions for its storyline, humor, and Riley’s filmmaking.

I Love Boosters is hitting theaters with The Mandalorian and Grogu

I Love Boosters is set to open in theaters on May 22, 2026. It shares its release date with Lucasfilm’s The Mandalorian and Grogu. While the upcoming Star Wars feature is expected to draw major attention globally, filmmaker Boots Riley’s latest project is also garnering strong early interest ahead of its theatrical debut.

Written and directed by Riley, I Love Boosters takes place in a surreal version of the San Francisco Bay Area. It follows a group of professional shoplifters known as “boosters.” The story centers on Corvette, played by Keke Palmer, along with her friends Sade and Mariah, portrayed by Naomi Ackie and Taylour Paige.

The trio steals items from boutique stores before reselling them at lower prices on the street. They describe the business as “Fashion Forward Philanthropy.” Additional cast members also include Poppy Liu as Jianhu and Eiza González as Violeta. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 93% critics’ score.

Meanwhile, The Mandalorian and Grogu continue the story of Din Djarin and Grogu following the success of The Mandalorian. Directed by Jon Favreau, the film follows the Mandalorian bounty hunter and his apprentice. They navigate a galaxy still dealing with the aftermath of the Empire’s collapse. Pedro Pascal reprises his role as Din Djarin alongside Sigourney Weaver and Jeremy Allen White.

Both films have already received positive reactions from viewers ahead of release. The Playlist praised I Love Boosters, writing that Boots Riley “has once again delivered a wildly original film that’s meant to provoke discussion and make the audience laugh.”