Netflix's 'Roommates' Hinges on Standout Performances by Sadie Sandler and Chloe East

The film's plot may be predictable, but the chemistry between the leads elevates the familiar story.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 12:59pm

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An extreme close-up of shimmering sequins and shards of reflective glass, capturing the glamorous yet tense atmosphere of the 'Roommates' film.The glitzy, high-fashion textures of 'Roommates' reflect the film's volatile energy and standout performances.Panama City Today

The new Netflix comedy 'Roommates' centers on the tumultuous relationship between two college roommates, the naive and desperate-for-friendship Devon (played by Sadie Sandler) and the vicious and manipulative Celeste (Chloe East). While the plot developments are easy to anticipate, the film is elevated by the powerhouse performances of its two leads, who inject the familiar story with high tension and restless energy.

Why it matters

The film's success hinges on the dynamic between its two main characters, showcasing the talents of up-and-coming young actors Sadie Sandler and Chloe East. Their chemistry and commitment to their roles are the driving forces behind 'Roommates', elevating a somewhat predictable plot into an engaging watch.

The details

Written by Jimmy Fowlie and Ceara O'Sullivan, 'Roommates' explores the perils of sharing a living space with someone who has no concept of boundaries. Celeste, played by the ferocious Chloe East, ruthlessly exploits the insecurity of her roommate Devon, portrayed by the adorably vulnerable Sadie Sandler. Despite being aware of Celeste's manipulation, the conflict-averse Devon becomes Celeste's personal ATM, buying her drinks and doing her schoolwork.

  • The film was released on Netflix in April 2026.

The players

Chloe East

An up-and-coming young actress who delivers a powerhouse performance as the vicious and manipulative Celeste in 'Roommates'.

Sadie Sandler

The daughter of actors Adam Sandler and Jackie Sandler, Sadie Sandler showcases her acting chops as the naive and desperate-for-friendship Devon in 'Roommates'.

Chandler Levack

The director of 'Roommates', who manages to create high tension and restless energy between the two lead characters.

Jimmy Fowlie

One of the writers of 'Roommates', who explores the perils of sharing a living space with someone who has no concept of boundaries.

Ceara O'Sullivan

The other writer of 'Roommates', who collaborates with Jimmy Fowlie to craft the story.

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What they’re saying

“Chloe East sends volcanic ripples across the screen in Roommates. She is ferociously physical and maddeningly vile. Her punchable face becomes an omen; her faux-sweet words carry the bitterness of poison.”

— Vikas Yadav, Reviewer

“Sadie Sandler plays [Devon] with such adorable vulnerability that she might as well be carrying a sign reading, 'Give me warm hugs, please.'”

— Vikas Yadav, Reviewer

What’s next

The film's release on Netflix in April 2026 will likely generate further discussion and reviews from critics and audiences.

The takeaway

While 'Roommates' may not offer many surprises in terms of plot, the standout performances by Sadie Sandler and Chloe East elevate the film and make it a worthwhile watch for fans of character-driven comedies.