Strange Darling: Pulp Fiction Meets Grindhouse in This Stylish, Bloody Ride

This is a wild ride wrapped in stylish visuals and soaked in tension. What starts as a seemingly simple one-night stand spirals into a twisted, blood-soaked nightmare, elevating itself beyond typical slasher fare with a confident directorial hand and a killer sense of style. J.T. Mollner crafts a thriller that feels both retro and fresh, with a 35mm aesthetic that gives every frame texture and warmth. The saturated colors, dynamic framing, and vintage cinematography make this one of the more visually striking indie thrillers in recent memory.

At the center of the chaos are Willa Fitzgerald and Kyle Gallner, who go toe-to-toe in a game of psychological cat and mouse. Fitzgerald balances vulnerability and strength, while Gallner gives a chilling, unpredictable edge to his role. Their chemistry is magnetic, constantly shifting between seductive and menacing. It’s the kind of dynamic that keeps you leaning forward, never quite sure who’s got the upper hand.

The story is told in a non-linear format, split into six chapters that shuffle the timeline. While this structure adds to the mystery and tension, it may throw off viewers expecting a more traditional narrative. Still, it rewards attention, with each chapter offering new context that redefines earlier scenes. It’s a clever narrative choice that makes the film more than just a standard killer-on-the-loose story.

Where the film stumbles a bit is in its second half. After a gripping and unpredictable setup, the momentum falters slightly, and some of the impact gets diluted as things start to feel more familiar. The ending, while not bad, doesn’t quite stick the landing, leaving you wishing for a more daring or emotionally resonant payoff.

But what carries Strange Darling through its rougher moments are the committed performances and a soundtrack that absolutely slaps. The music choices, often retro and sometimes eerie, enhance the mood and complement the film’s stylish edge perfectly. It’s the kind of soundtrack you’ll want to look up immediately afterward.

Strange Darling may not be flawless, but it’s a refreshing entry in the summer thriller canon. Visually bold, well-acted, and brimming with energy, it offers enough surprises and style to make it worth the ride.