The Devil’s in the Details.
The Devil’s in the Details.
Director J.T. Mollner’s Strange Darling is an electrifying horror thriller that expertly weaves twists and turns for an unforgettable viewing experience. Shot entirely in 35-millimeter, the film has a rich, cinematic aesthetic that perfectly complements its fresh concept and flawless performances. It’s a heart-pounding adventure that will hold you in suspense from start to finish.
Taking place in rural Oregon, and also filmed in the state, the story unfolds in six non-linear chapters which challenge expectations. A seemingly chance encounter between two strangers, played by Willa Fitzgerald and Kyle Gallner, quickly shifts from a flirtatious role-playing game into a tense cat-and-mouse chase, where the stakes are deadly. For maximum impact, it’s recommended to go in blind.
Beginning with an opening text crawl sequence reminiscent of the original Texas Chainsaw Massacre, Strange Darling is presented as a dramatization of the true story of a serial killer’s murder spree across the Western United States. Though it’s not specifically based on true events this doesn’t take away from the film’s intensity. Strategically told through purposeful chapters, Strange Darling embraces its uniqueness and offers unforgettable imagery for the genre, notably The Lady’s blood-stained sprint through the woods set to a haunting cover of Love Hurts. J.T. Mollner’s vision is uncompromising, striking an artistic balance of darkness and humour, with a level of sophistication that elevates the violence and bloodshed.
Willa Fitzgerald, known for her lead role in the Scream TV series, delivers a complex and fascinating performance as The Lady. She draws you in and holds your attention throughout; ideally, this role will result in future horror projects for her. Reigning Scream King Kyle Gallner also shines as The Demon, giving his best performance to date. He brings a convincing and transformative element to his character, masterfully peeling back the layers to take the audience on a wild emotional ride. The film features several long intimate shots of Willa and Kyle’s characters together, highlighting their on-screen chemistry and wonderfully showcasing their talents. The supporting cast also excels, adding depth and elevating their short but significant scenes.
Strange Darling is a masterclass in horror filmmaking, with a distinctive grainy aesthetic reminiscent of 1970s horror classics, thanks to its 35mm shoot. Giovanni Ribisi’s debut cinematography work is stunning, utilizing deep neon blues and vibrant pinks to create a dreamlike atmosphere. Close-up shots intensify the emotion, precise editing heightens the tension, and meticulous makeup and special effects merge to form a chaotic vibe that perfectly captures the dark screenplay. Z Berg’s original soundtrack, featuring tracks like Better the Devil and Back Into the Blue, perfectly complements the film’s hypnotic essence, enhancing the mood with soothing vocals and soft rhythms contrasting the savagery. Overall, the vivid aesthetic and sound transform the horror elements into something weirdly beautiful.
With its dynamic colour palette, non-linear narrative, and multifaceted characters, Strange Darling is a thrilling indie horror that will linger long after the credits roll. J.T. Mollner’s bold artistic vision results in symbolic visuals and memorable scenes that leave a lasting impression. It’s sure to be one of the landmark horror films of the year.
