Strange Darling
Strange Darling is a memorable take on the serial killer subgenre that's at its most appealing when it's still unravelling its mysteries
A crawl narrated to the audience explains that we are about to witness the recreation of the final moments of a rampage undertaken by one of America’s most ‘unique’ serial killers. Following this, a woman in red sprints in slow motion toward the camera, her moustached pursuer revealed shortly thereafter. All of what we’re seeing is gorgeous, shot entirely on 35mm film.
Strange Darling, the second feature film from JT Mollner, is a confident and memorable take on the serial killer movie. With its enigmatic setup and strikingly familiar images, Strange Darling plays wonderfully with the expectations created by the dubious 'true crime' genre, effectively manipulating viewers with an edgy script and visual mastery. Of course, the actors are important too, especially their ability to keep you guessing. Though Kyle Gallner does a fine job as ‘The Demon’, it’s Willa Fitzgerald who steals the show as ‘The Lady’, with a performance that’s not just a breakout, but a total shotgun blast.
Strange Darling is precise in its construction, providing a high degree of satisfaction in the way it pieces together its initially diffuse parts. This appeal admittedly runs out by the halfway point of the film, when the overarching story becomes almost entirely clear, but you’re kept on the hook long enough to stay invested when Strange Darling shifts from its puzzling beginning to its thrilling final act. All in all, it’s a ride that will leave you reeling – just make sure to go in blind.
Released 20 Sep by Icon Film Distribution; certificate 18