Writer/Director JT Mollner sneaks his 2023 non-linear murder story, aka serial killer tale, Strange Darling just under the radar. This beautifully filmed thriller/horror movie *The colours are magnificent.* could be a homage to Asian horror films. Strange Darling is also a quick nod to Rob Zombie and Tobe Hooper as well.
The Story
In Strange Darling a one night stand turns into not so fun and games. It becomes a horrible game of death, torture and desperate flight. A man and woman fight to the death and we are privy to this battle of the sexes.
The main Cast
Willa Fitzgerald is “The Lady.”
Kyle Gallner is “The Demon.”
Second String
Madisen Beaty is Gale.
Bianca A. Santos is Tanya.
Steven Michael Quezada is Pete.
Cameos to Die For
Ed Begley Jr. is Frederick.
Barbara Hershey is Genevieve.
Vocals
Jason Patric as “True Crime Narrator.”
Giovanni Ribisi is Art Pallone.
Strange Darling BTS
Giovanni Ribisi pulls double duty here as DP and as stated in the first paragraph, this film looks beautiful. The colours are stunningly deep and vibrant. They nearly burst off of the screen. Editor Christopher Robin Bell puts this all together with the skill of a surgeon. In any movie that relies upon a non-linear approach to the tale, this is crucial. Bell and Ribisi pull off a splendid double act here.
It works
From the overt beauty of the Strange Darling‘s colours to the odd, sickening sound of pancake syrup, the film impresses. Film fans who are not devout followers of Asian horror movies like Dream Home, may not get it. *This is one of those “If you know…” deals. J-Horror king Takashi Shimizu is the master of non delineated time lines.”*
The twist, or surprise of Strange Darling is impressive. So too is the blood shed in this one. There may not be a overly visceral element, but this is literally blood soaked. Knife wounds look real and there are no wire work pulls to those folks being shot. *In one scene, however, the blood is displayed a’la Pulp Fiction‘s “Marvin” scenario.
It works wonderfully.
The stunts and the FX, which all look practical by the way, are spot on. Kudos folks, kudos.
The Elephant in the room
Strange Darling starts with a scroll prologue stating that the film is based upon a true story. Think “Coen Bros” here and all will come clear.
*Side Note: “Who is Gary Gilmore?” Unless you follow real true crime stories, you will have to look this one up. Be advised, it is not for the faint of heart.”
The Verdict
Strange Darling earns a solid 5 stars here. Everything about this films exceeds expectations. It has an excellent cast and spot on performances. There is a plot that, like Chubby Checker, truly twists and shouts. All these equate to a delightful horror film that is well worth watching.
Strange Darling is streaming on Paramount Plus right now. Head on over and prepare to be entertained.
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