Through innovative storytelling, writer-director JT Mollner redefines this overused genre, delivering an exceptionally clever thriller, elevated by outstanding performances from co-leads Willa Fitzgerald and Kyle Gallner.
The film begins with a title card proudly stating that it was shot entirely on 35mm film. This is followed by a text crawl revealing that the killer was active in the Interior West before a final showdown in the forests of Oregon, where the story unfolds. Despite its contemporary setting, "Strange Darling" is a nostalgic throwback in many aspects. The '70s aesthetic is evident in Gallner's mustache, yellow-tinted sunglasses, grainy visuals, and the frequent use of "Love Hurts" in the soundtrack. Despite these retro elements, Mollner demonstrates a forward-thinking approach compared to his peers in the genre. He is clearly well-versed in the genre, having studied the lessons of his predecessors skillfully in order to leave his own distinctive mark.
Not the usual thriller movie
"Strange Darling" takes a non-linear approach that might seem reminiscent of Tarantino at first, but ultimately reveals itself to be a clever way of hiding a surprising twist. To fully appreciate "Strange Darling," it is best to have minimal prior knowledge, as it begins with an unnamed injured woman, the Lady (Fitzgerald), fleeing from a man known as the Demon (Gallner). As the story progresses through its out-of-order chapters, it consistently defies audience expectations.
Despite his long career as an actor since childhood, Giovanni Ribisi appears to have a true passion for directing—specifically, in photography. In his debut as a cinematographer, he showcases his skill behind the lens just as impressively as he does in front of it, capturing the vivid details of the story's blood, handcuffs, and gunpowder with rich color and texture. This new addition to his talents may be surprising, but it is certainly a delightful one.