Strange Darling :"A twisted love story that spirals through terror and time."
- Director: JT Mollner
- Cast: Willa Fitzgerald, Kyle Gallner, Ed Begley Jr., Barbara Hershey
- Producers: Bill Block, Roy Lee, Steven Schneider, Giovanni Ribisi, Chris Ivan Cevic
- Music Director: Craig DeLeon
- Cinematography: Giovanni Ribisi
- Editing: Christopher Bell
- Genre: Thriller, Serial Killer, Romance
- Language: English
- Runtime: 96 minutes
- Release Date: 2023-09-25 (Fantastic Fest)
- OTT Release: TBD
Plot:
Strange Darling follows a woman known as the Lady (Willa Fitzgerald), on the run from a serial killer called the Demon (Kyle Gallner). With a narrative split into six nonlinear chapters, it takes the audience on a journey of fear, twisted love, and suspense.
Performances:
Willa Fitzgerald as the Lady:
Fitzgerald delivers a captivating performance, showcasing both emotional depth and physical endurance as her character fights for survival.
Kyle Gallner as the Demon:
Gallner shines with his versatile portrayal, effortlessly shifting between being a menacing killer and a strangely charming figure, making him a perfect fit for the unhinged antagonist.
Supporting Cast:
Ed Begley Jr. and Barbara Hershey add depth to the story as two older hippies who unfortunately get swept up in the deadly cat-and-mouse chase. Their brief but impactful roles complement the central characters' arc.
Technical Aspects:
Direction:
JT Mollner skillfully revives the serial-killer genre, infusing it with a nonlinear narrative that keeps audiences guessing. His direction heightens the tension, allowing the story to unravel in a way that maintains suspense throughout.
Cinematography:
Giovanni Ribisi’s work behind the camera is stunning. By shooting the film entirely on 35mm, he gives Strange Darling a textured, vintage feel that complements its '70s vibe. The visuals are grainy yet atmospheric, adding to the film's eerie tone.
Music:
Craig DeLeon’s music elevates the emotional and suspenseful beats of the film. The score seamlessly blends with the tension, amplifying key moments without overshadowing the narrative.
Editing:
Christopher Bell’s sharp editing ensures that the film’s nonlinear timeline is coherent, allowing the tension to build as the story unfolds and giving viewers the necessary clues to piece the puzzle together.
Strengths:
- Nonlinear Structure
- Strong Performances
- Vintage Cinematography
- Effective Music
Weaknesses:
- Slow Pace
- Confusing Plot
My Personal Take on Cinema:
Strange Darling offers a fresh take on the serial-killer genre. JT Mollner’s direction, paired with Ribisi’s vintage cinematography and DeLeon’s suspenseful music, crafts a unique cinematic experience. The nonlinear storytelling and stellar performances by Willa Fitzgerald and Kyle Gallner ensure the movie stands out in a crowded genre. While the pacing may feel slow at times, the overall mood and tone reward patient viewers, offering a satisfying and layered thriller.
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