The Scene staff
“The process and the end product are equally valuable. I embrace imperfection as much as I embrace the purity of perfection.” — Virgil Abloh
Any time I watch a movie or TV show, I keep a sharp eye out for little references that pay homage to the creations or influences of other artists. Whether it’s artwork, fashion or inspirational quotes, I enjoy making the connection.
One of my favorite things about the 2022 animated movie “Entergalactic” is that it pays tribute to the style of Virgil Abloh (1980-2021), a multitalented entrepreneur who influenced fashion, architecture and other culture. But I also liked the story, music and themes of trust, commitment and self-improvement.
The movie’s plot revolves around an up-and-coming comic-book artist named Jabari living in New York City. He moves into a new, upscale apartment and falls in love with his neighbor, Meadow, who he believes is his soulmate.
The two artists are building a relationship when Jabari’s ex-girlfriend, Carmen, texts him a sexy photo of herself partially clothed in his hoodie. That causes trust issues with Meadow, who begins distancing herself from him.
The movie follows the couple as they try to resolve their issues and heal their relationship. Along the way, friends and family members offer advice, as well as humorous and touching stories that include flashbacks from their own lives.
“Entergalactic” is essentially an animated comic book, with the story segmented into 12 chapters, each with its own Kid Cudi song and flashback. There also are voice-acting cameos by entertainer and designer Kerwin Frost, actor Jaden Smith and rapper Ty Dolla $ign.
The movie begins in outer space with miscellaneous objects (a box of noodles, spray can, lighter and a lit joint) floating around. Back on earth, we meet Jabari (played by Scott Mescudi, aka Kid Cudi), getting high on the roof of his new apartment complex.
Movers interrupt his break and ask him to come down and help them unload a KAWS companion statue. He struggles with it as the Kid Cudi song “By Design,” featuring André 3000, plays in the background.
The scene transitions to Jabari’s beautiful and mysterious photographer neighbor, Meadow (Jessica Williams), getting ready for work. The two meet in the elevator.
After Jabari settles in, he runs into Carmen (Laura Harrier), and they have a one-night stand. The experience was enough to confirm that she wasn’t right for him, and he tells her that he wants to keep the relationship “friends only.”
Jabari and Meadow gently get to know each other. He shows her his first street art, and she introduces him to her favorite vegan restaurant.
Jabari’s male friends warn him about getting involved with a neighbor, relating their past issues and adventures with women residing in their apartment buildings.
Jabari ignores the advice, allowing his relationship with Meadow to intensify. They become intimate one evening, after she rides home from a party through the streets of New York on the pegs of his bike in a dream-like sequence set in space.
Enter Carmen, who calls Jabari and asks him to help her get rid of a huge rat in her apartment. He obliges and accidentally leaves his red hoodie, leading to the sexy text and causing problems with Meadow.
Eventually, Jabari and Meadow get back together. He attends her photography exhibit, and they end up the vegan burger joint where they had their first date. It’s the perfect place to kiss and make up.
“Entergalactic” is spectacular. Its animated comic-book format is similar to “Spiderman: Into the Spiderverse” and the “Puss in Boots” sequel, using computer-graphic imaging with 2-D animation that is beautifully done.
The movie celebrates New York Street culture, fashion and music. It shows heavy marijuana use, as well as sex scenes and coarse language. It’s not for children, but for adults, it’s worth the hour (and 34 minutes).