Acrylic is a bold, colorful dive into the world of nail salons, style rivalries, and over-the-top glamour. Directed by and starring Nicole D’Angelo, the film promises fierce style battles, jaw-dropping nail art, and a showcase of confidence, sass, and charm. On paper, the premise—a competition between two salons vying for the top spot—offers rich potential for comedy and drama, and there are moments where the film flirts with that promise.
D’Angelo leads with enthusiasm, and the cast brings a playful energy to the screen. For fans of manicure selfies, flamboyant fashion, and cheeky salon rivalries, there’s plenty to enjoy. Lisa London, in particular, shines. She injects humanity, emotional depth, and range into her character, making her scenes feel genuinely engaging despite the simplicity of the script.
However, Acrylic struggles with execution. The humor often falls flat, the characters are largely superficial, and plot threads—like the story with Dave—are introduced but left undeveloped. The performances can feel amateurish at times, giving the film a “high school play” quality that detracts from the otherwise glamorous setting. The script lacks the crispness and polish that a story like this requires, and while there are some amusing ideas, they never fully land.
Yet, there’s something endearing about the film’s underlying message. At its core, Acrylic is about human relationships, supporting one another, and finding community—timeless themes that resonate even when the execution is uneven. For viewers who can look past the missteps, there is charm, style, and a few laughs sprinkled throughout.
Overall, Acrylic is uneven but not without merit. Its ambition, visual flair, and standout performances—especially by Lisa London—give it enough sparkle to keep some viewers entertained, even if it doesn’t quite reach the heights of its glossy aspirations.
Jessie Hobson