Movie Review: Strange Darling

Director J T Mollner’s Strange Darling is a captivating thriller that promises intrigue and suspense from its opening moments. The film sets a tone of eerie anticipation with a gripping image of a woman, ‘The Lady’ (played by Willa Fitzgerald), desperately fleeing through the woods. Her striking appearance—dressed in red with matted blonde hair—visually evokes classic fears of Little Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad Wolf, establishing a foreboding atmosphere that pervades the film.

Strange Darling ventures into the dark world of a serial killer and explores themes of identity, gender, and power dynamics. The narrative unfolds non-linearly through “six chapters,” which adds a layer of complexity but can also come across as a mere stylistic choice rather than a necessary storytelling device. This non-linear approach, while intriguing, occasionally detracts from the film’s cohesion, leaving audiences questioning its purpose beyond artistic flair.

Giovanni Ribisi, renowned for his acting career, makes an impressive directorial debut with this film. His cinematography is notable for its versatility—from the intimate, blue-lit flirtation between the leads in a car to the dense, atmospheric hues of their dangerous encounters. Ribisi’s visual storytelling enhances the mood and tension, bringing a vivid contrast to the lighter, serene moments set in quaint cottages.

The film is anchored by strong performances from its cast. Willa Fitzgerald and Kyle Gallner deliver compelling portrayals of their enigmatic characters, while Barbara Hershey and Ed Begley Jr. provide intriguing support as an eccentric old couple. The interactions between these characters are charged with a sense of danger and unpredictability, keeping viewers on edge.

Strange Darling also invites reflection on gender stereotypes and the risks associated with navigating hostile environments. Before checking into the hotel with ‘The Demon’, ‘The Lady’ raises a thought-provoking question about the dangers women face in such situations. However, while the film initiates important questions, it doesn’t fully explore them, and by the time the “epilogue” arrives, the narrative loses its sharpness. The latter part of the film is marred by excessive violence, redundant dialogue, and a mention of the devil that feels out of place and unnecessary.

Overall, Strange Darling is an engaging thriller with striking visual elements and a provocative premise. While it succeeds in creating suspense and delivering strong performances, its narrative choices and lack of depth in exploring its themes somewhat diminish its impact.

Rating: 3 Stars