Strange Darling - Review: A Riveting Non-Linear Puzzle of Suspense

Strange Darling (2023)

A Riveting Non-Linear Puzzle of Suspense

★★★½☆

A hauntingly beautiful thriller that rewards those who go in completely blind.

Directed by JT Mollner, Strange Darling is one of those rare movies where the less you know about the story going in, the better. It is built around secrets and twists that demand the viewer turn off their analytical brain and simply absorb the experience as it unfolds. Featuring a standout lead performance by Willa Fitzgerald and striking direction, the film utilizes a non-linear narrative to build a sense of dread that culminates in an especially riveting and suspenseful third act.

"As haunting and disturbing the proceedings are, the movie will likely and deservedly be recognized as one of the best films of 2024."

— Ray Manukay

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director/Writer: JT Mollner
• Starring: Willa Fitzgerald, Kyle Gallner
• Cinematography: Giovanni Ribisi
• Supporting: Barbara Hershey, Ed Begley Jr.

The Vision

The film is a masterclass in atmospheric tension, supported by handsome production design and cool, interesting visuals. Mollner’s decision to tell this story out of order isn't just a gimmick; it forces the audience into a state of constant re-evaluation. By the time the third act arrives, the movie has successfully transitioned from a standard thriller setup into a haunting and deeply disturbing exploration of its characters' psyche.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• Actor Behind the Lens: The film's striking visuals were captured by cinematographer Giovanni Ribisi, who is better known for his prolific acting career.
• Shot on Film: To achieve its unique aesthetic, the production was shot entirely on 35mm film, giving it a tactile, classic thriller texture that stands out in the digital age.
• Stephen King Approved: Legendary author Stephen King publicly praised the film on social media, calling it a "clever masterpiece" and urging fans not to look up spoilers.

✅ Pros

• Powerhouse performance by Willa Fitzgerald.
• Breathtaking 35mm cinematography and production design.
• Expertly executed non-linear storytelling and suspense.

❌ Cons

• The twist-heavy nature may frustrate viewers who prefer traditional plots.
• Certain sequences are deeply haunting and potentially polarizing.

The Full Analysis

Strange Darling is one of those rare cinematic experiences where the less you know about the story going into it, the better the experience will be. However, when a film is described in such a guarded manner, the natural tendency is for the viewer to immediately try and figure out exactly what it is that makes the narrative so secretive. Usually, this implies a hidden twist or a structural puzzle that needs to be solved. Suffice it to say that is certainly the case here, but if one can just turn off that analytical side of the brain and simply absorb the film as it happens, it will significantly enhance the overall enjoyment of the ride.

As a general, intentionally vague overview, the production features exceptionally strong performances, particularly a fearless turn from Willa Fitzgerald that anchors the entire project. The film is elevated by a handsome production design and cool, interesting visuals that capture a gritty yet polished aesthetic. Director JT Mollner exhibits strong direction throughout, utilizing a non-linear storytelling approach that keeps the audience off-balance and guessing at the true nature of the characters' motivations. This fragmented chronicle is not just a gimmick; it is an essential tool used to deconstruct the typical tropes of the thriller genre.

The third act is especially riveting and suspenseful, reaching a fever pitch that few modern thrillers manage to sustain. As haunting and disturbing as the proceedings become, the movie never loses its grip on the viewer's attention. It feels like a visceral, runaway train of spontaneity, where the shifting perspectives provide a sharp, satirical edge to the traditional "cat and mouse" dynamic. It is the kind of bold filmmaking that feels both vintage and refreshingly modern at the same time.

In the end, Strange Darling will likely and deservedly be recognized as one of the best films of 2024. It is a powerfully invigorating work that rewards the audience's patience and trust, delivering a punch that lingers long after the credits roll. For those seeking a story that isn't afraid to color outside the lines of conventional mystery, this film is an absolute triumph. It marks a significant achievement for the cast and crew, proving that there is still plenty of room for originality and dark, creative brilliance in the world of independent cinema.

🏆 Final Verdict

A bold and visually stunning achievement in the thriller genre. Strange Darling is a puzzle worth solving, anchored by incredible performances and a direction that refuses to take the easy way out.

View original review on Letterboxd