Bowling comedies are rare, but The Gutter is here to change that. Directed by Isaiah and Yassir Lester, this indie film is shaping up to be a wild ride. Magnolia Pictures recently dropped the official US trailer for The Gutter, which promises an entertaining blend of slapstick humor and underdog sports drama. If you've been waiting for a new spin on the bowling genre since Kingpin, this might be the film to watch.
Shameik Moore, known for his roles in Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse and Dope, plays Walt, a down-on-his-luck bartender at a crumbling bowling alley called AlleyCatz. His life takes an unexpected turn when he discovers he has a hidden talent for bowling. Faced with the challenge of saving the alley from closure, Walt dives into the competitive world of pro bowling to take on a fiery champion, portrayed by Susan Sarandon. Sarandon's character seems to channel a fierce, Karen-like attitude that adds an extra layer of tension and comedy to the mix.
The Gutter Poster

The film, which premiered at the 2024 SXSW Film Festival, will be released in select US theaters and on VOD on November 1st, 2024. It features a strong supporting cast, including D'Arcy Carden, Jay Ellis, Jackée Harry, and Paul Reiser. With writers known for Black-ish and Black Monday, you can expect sharp dialogue and clever humor.
Does The Gutter have what it takes to bowl over audiences, or will it be a gutter ball? Grab your popcorn and prepare for plenty of laughs—this quirky comedy might surprise you.
The Gutter Trailer
Are you ready for The Gutter to roll into theaters, or do you think bowling comedies are too niche to make a comeback?