Strange Darling is the best thriller of the year

As a seasoned gamer of thriller movies, I must confess that “Strange Darling” has left me spellbound, much like the enigmatic Demon leaves his victims. This film is not for the faint-hearted or those who seek clarity in linear storytelling. It’s a labyrinthine journey that twists and turns, keeping you on the edge of your seat.


It can be challenging to evaluate a film like “Strange Darling” properly since its full impact is often felt when watched without prior knowledge. However, simply recommending that you should see it because it’s outstanding might not convey the whole picture.

If it satisfies your interest, wonderful! Feel free to halt your reading here and immediately watch “Strange Darling” if you reside in the United States. For those of you in the UK, prepare yourself to catch it in cinemas next month, specifically on September 20th.

If you require additional information, we’re ready to assist. The gripping story begins as a woman (Willa Fitzgerald) is seen in distress, fleeing through Oregon’s wilderness with a wounded ear. Following an attention-grabbing title sequence, accompanied by Z Berg’s rendition of ‘Love Hurts’, one of the many Z Berg songs that make up the impressive soundtrack, we can identify who…

In the film, the character we know simply as ‘The Lady’ is pursued by an unyielding enemy called ‘The Demon’ (portrayed by Kyle Gallner). However, is her situation truly what it appears to be? That’s the delightful mystery that unfolds in ‘Strange Darling‘!

Strange Darling is the best thriller of the year

In the vein of Quentin Tarantino’s storytelling style, the narrative of “Strange Darling” is fragmented, presenting scenes out of sequence and separated into distinct chapters. It begins in the heart of the story before skillfully jumping between various points in time, these transitions strategically timed to keep audiences off-balance and intrigued.

The film’s introduction states that the story is a dramatization of a serial killer’s last day, but be aware that it’s purely fictional and not based on real events. This setup invites you to scrutinize every character, including Genevieve (played by Barbara Hershey) and Frederick (Ed Begley Jr), which only intensifies the mystery throughout the film.

In the film by director JT Mollner, crucial plot details are kept hidden until the climax. However, it’s the outstanding acting of Willa Fitzgerald and Kyle Gallner that keeps the audience engaged throughout. Both performers deliver compelling performances, which could potentially mark a significant turning point in their careers, as they tackle meaty roles that promise to catapult them into prominence.

Gallner skillfully adapts his acting to reflect our understanding or lack thereof about the Demon, often playing with audience assumptions based on his grungy ’70s-inspired appearance. Fitzgerald is extraordinary in her portrayal of the Lady, a role that demands intense close-ups and deep character exploration.

Strange Darling is the best thriller of the year

Their exceptional performances are matched by the filmmaking craft on display, with Strange Darling proudly proclaiming in its opening titles that it’s shot entirely on 35mm film.

The cinematographer Giovanni Ribisi (you got that right!) demonstrates an impressive ability to capture both breathtaking expansive landscapes and intimately tense close-ups within the film. Furthermore, there’s a noticeable use of red tones throughout, with some scenes immersed in it for dramatic impact.

As a captivated viewer, I can’t help but attest that this movie grips you tightly from start to finish with an unforeseen narrative twist at every turn. You’ll recognize cinematic echoes here and there, but make no mistake, “Strange Darling” stands on its own as the outstanding thriller of the year.

Strange Darling is the best thriller of the year

Strange Darling is out now in US cinemas and is released in UK cinemas on September 20.

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2024-08-24 23:48

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