New Movies: On Swift Horses (2024) by Daniel Minahan

On Swift Horses (2024) by Daniel Minahan: A Reckless Romance in Post-War America

"On Swift Horses," plunges into the exhilarating and perilous underground of 1950s America. It follows Muriel, a young newlywed who, along with her husband Lee, gets swept into a forbidden romance with Julius, a mysterious and dangerous Korean War veteran. The film is a stylish, sensual, and ultimately tragic exploration of desire, identity,

Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt15042300/

Link Review: https://variety.com/2025/film/reviews/on-swift-horses-review-daisy-edgar-jones-jacob-elordi-1236336570/

About movie: https://www.sonyclassics.com/film/onswifthorses/

Link to watch: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/on-swift-horses (US), https://www.justwatch.com/ca/movie/on-swift-horses (Canada)

Detailed Summary

Set in the atmospheric, clandestine world of 1950s America, "On Swift Horses" introduces us to Muriel, a young woman whose life takes an unexpected turn after her marriage to Lee. Lee is an enigmatic Korean War veteran with a hidden past and a restless spirit. Soon after their wedding, Lee's charismatic and equally mysterious cousin, Julius, also a veteran, enters their lives. A palpable, unspoken attraction ignites between Lee and Julius, drawing Muriel into their complicated and dangerous orbit. As Muriel finds herself entangled in a forbidden love triangle, she witnesses the intoxicating allure and devastating consequences of living outside societal norms. The film delves into themes of forbidden desire, self-discovery, and the tragic price of freedom in an era where non-conformity, particularly regarding sexuality, was met with severe repression. The narrative is infused with a neo-noir sensibility, characterized by its moody visuals, suspenseful atmosphere, and exploration of complex moral landscapes.

Plot Summary

• Newlywed Life: Muriel marries Lee, a Korean War veteran with a restless spirit.

• Julius's Arrival: Lee's charismatic and mysterious cousin, Julius, also a veteran, enters their lives, creating an immediate tension.

• Forbidden Attraction: An unspoken but intense attraction develops between Lee and Julius.

• Muriel's Entanglement: Muriel is drawn into their complicated relationship, becoming a witness and participant in their forbidden romance.

• Dangerous Encounters: Their lives become intertwined with the perilous underground of 1950s America, marked by clandestine meetings and societal disapproval.

• Pursuit of Freedom: The trio navigates a world that polices their desires, desperately seeking personal freedom and authentic identity.

• Tragic Consequences: Their reckless pursuit of love and individuality ultimately leads to devastating and unavoidable outcomes.

Director's Vision

Daniel Minahan, known for his work on "Six Feet Under" and "True Blood," brings his directorial prowess to "On Swift Horses," aiming to craft a film that is both a sweeping romance and a taut neo-noir thriller. He envisions a raw and sensual exploration of forbidden desires and the destructive consequences of societal repression in post-war America. Minahan intends to capture the desperate search for identity and connection in a time of intense conformity, using a visually evocative style to convey the mood and tension of the era. The film seeks to honor the spirit of the original novel by Shannon Pufahl, translating its evocative prose into a cinematic experience that is both beautiful and heartbreaking.

Themes

• Forbidden Desire and Identity: The central theme revolves around the exploration of forbidden same-sex desires in the restrictive social climate of the 1950s, and the characters' struggle to define their true identities.

• The Price of Freedom: The film examines the high cost of pursuing personal freedom and authentic love when it clashes with societal norms and legal restrictions, leading to tragic outcomes.

• Post-War Trauma and Disillusionment: The characters, particularly the veterans Lee and Julius, carry the invisible wounds of war, which manifest in their restless spirits and unconventional choices, reflecting a broader disillusionment of the era.

• Neo-Noir Sensibility: Themes of moral ambiguity, obsession, hidden desires, and inevitable doom are woven throughout the narrative, characteristic of the neo-noir genre.

• Love as a Form of Rebellion: For Muriel, Lee, and Julius, their complex relationships become a quiet act of rebellion against the rigid expectations of their time, highlighting love's transformative and sometimes destructive power.

• The Pursuit of the Unknown: The characters are driven by a yearning for something beyond their conventional lives, whether it's gambling, risk-taking, or forbidden romance, signifying a restless search for excitement and meaning.

Key Success Factors

• Star-Studded Cast: The ensemble featuring Jacob Elordi, Will Poulter, Daisy Edgar-Jones, Diego Calva, and Sasha Calle brings significant acting talent and audience draw to the project.

• Acclaimed Source Material: Based on Shannon Pufahl's highly praised novel, the film benefits from a strong narrative foundation and a pre-existing audience.

• Experienced Director: Daniel Minahan's extensive background in character-driven dramas and his understanding of complex human relationships are crucial for navigating the film's nuanced themes.

• Timeless Themes: The exploration of forbidden love, identity, and societal oppression remains relevant, resonating with contemporary audiences despite the historical setting.

• Atmospheric Visuals and Cinematography: The film's likely emphasis on stylish neo-noir aesthetics will contribute to its overall appeal and critical reception.

• Potential for Awards Recognition: The combination of a strong cast, compelling story, and reputable director positions the film as a contender for awards in acting and direction.

Summary Short

In 1950s America, a young newlywed, Muriel, navigates a perilous love triangle with her restless veteran husband Lee and his charismatic cousin Julius, as they seek forbidden desires and freedom in a world of rigid societal rules.

Awards and Nominations: Nominee Jordan Ressler First Feature Award, Miami Film Festival 2025

Critics' Reception

Overall, the critics' reception for On Swift Horses indicates "generally favorable reviews," according to Metacritic, which assigned the film a score of 65 out of 100 based on 21 critics. Rotten Tomatoes also reports a 51% positive rating from 97 critics, with a consensus stating the film "capitalizes on a steadfast cast while grappling with contemplatively rich themes of society, sexuality, and morality to a mostly astute end."

A significant aspect of the critics' discussion revolves around the film's marketing and its portrayal of queer relationships.

• Variety: Chief film critic Peter Debruge highlighted that the film is "a gay love story" and criticized the official marketing materials for "deliberately deceptive" synopses that downplayed or omitted the LGBTQ+ nature of the characters and relationships. He noted that terms like "self-discovery" and "exploring a love she never dreamed possible" were coy ways to avoid mentioning the queer themes.

• The Washington Blade: As the oldest LGBTQ+ newspaper in the US, this publication praised the film itself but echoed criticisms of its promotion, stating "Sony Pictures' promotions avoid referencing queer sexuality of main characters." John Paul King's review emphasized that despite the marketing, the film is "100% a gay love story" and "unequivocally a 'Queer Movie'," praising the "joyously queer-affirming" relationship between Jacob Elordi and Diego Calva's characters. The review concluded that the film's positive message about queer relationships should have been highlighted, not concealed.

• IndieWire: Christian Zilko gave the film an A-, commending the writing, cinematography, and direction. He noted that Bryce Kass's script "straddles an ideal line between sentimentality and bitterness," while Minahan and cinematographer Luc Montpellier's work was praised.

• The Hollywood Reporter: Jourdain Searles described the film as "beautiful, heartbreaking, and demands to be seen on the biggest screen possible."

• Financial Times: Nicolas Rapold appreciated that Minahan and the cast did not reduce the characters' affairs "to a vehicle for prestige tragedy or steamy entertainment," suggesting their experiences felt like reflections of countless lives constrained by social conformity.

• Deadline Hollywood: In a more dissenting view, Pete Hammond found the movie "disjointed" with too many interwoven plot developments, struggling to decide which thread or character to focus on.

Reviews

Here's a summary of reviews from various sites:

• RogerEbert.com: Brian Tallerico describes On Swift Horses as an "engaging drama" and a "throwback" to heartfelt melodramas, largely succeeding due to its "phenomenal young cast," particularly praising Jacob Elordi's "best film work to date." He highlights the script's "wonderful dualities" and consistently captivating storytelling, even if the ending feels "rushed." The film's exploration of gambling secrets intermingling with sexual secrets is noted as captivating.

• AP News: Lindsey Bahr's review found the film to be a "fumbled queer tale" despite a "brilliant performance by Daisy Edgar-Jones." The review criticized the "meandering plot and clunky symbols" that ultimately undermine the film's message about hidden homosexuality in the 1950s. While acknowledging the relevance of the themes, it felt the adaptation "hasn't made the leap to the screen very well."

• In Review Online: This review describes the film as a "crushingly timid homage to the sweeping Hollywood melodramas of the 1950s: thematically didactic, straight-faced, and visually conventional." It suggests that while Minahan is passionate about the period, his vision is "blandly televisual" and struggles to evoke the "overwhelming feeling this story of burgeoning love and personal sacrifice requires." The review also found the sexual encounters to be "erotically stale."

• Film Review Daily: Chad Kennerk calls the film an "evocative period love story" and a "meditation on the quiet revolution of being true to oneself." He praises Minahan's "personal, empathetic lens" and the film's ability to challenge traditional narratives of the American West. The "terrific, next-generation cast" led by Daisy Edgar-Jones is highlighted for lifting "occasionally meandering material."

• Contra Zoom Pod: This review gives the film a 3.5/5, noting its initial setup as a love triangle but quickly evolving into parallel stories of self-discovery for Muriel and Julius. It praises the "breezy screenplay and crisp, up-tempo editing" and the "sizzling chemistry" between Jacob Elordi and Diego Calva. While acknowledging some "clunky and rushed" dialogue and a "somewhat inconclusive ending," the review concludes that the film's central thesis is the "life-changing sexiness of being truly seen and accepted."

• The Film Stage: This review found the film to be an "endearing melodrama with an alluring ensemble," praising the "ridiculously attractive lineup of buzzworthy young actors." Despite acknowledging that the "messy, tangled plotlines" might have been better suited for a series and that the ending becomes "far too messy" with a "laughably silly" final shot, the review ultimately finds the film compelling due to the talented cast and story.

• Screen Daily: Robert Daniels describes it as a "slow-burning, 1950s-set noir-western about transgressing boundaries," featuring an "electrifying performance from Elordi" and "detailed sets and stunning photography." It highlights the film's "attentive recreation of a specific time" and its "flawed but intense critique of Americana."

Overall Summary

On Swift Horses is a period drama set in the 1950s that explores themes of self-discovery, societal conformity, and hidden desires, particularly within the LGBTQ+ context. Critics largely commend Daniel Minahan's direction and the strong performances from its ensemble cast, especially Jacob Elordi and Daisy Edgar-Jones. The film is often praised for its evocative visual style and its empathetic portrayal of characters navigating a restrictive era.

However, a significant point of contention has been the film's marketing, which some critics argue deliberately downplayed its central queer themes, leading to questions about representation and honesty in promotion. While many found the storytelling compelling and the exploration of sexuality poignant, some reviews noted issues with pacing, a disjointed plot, or a feeling of the film not fully realizing its potential, occasionally veering into melodrama or lacking sufficient depth in certain storylines. Despite these critiques, the film is often seen as a commendable effort in portraying overlooked narratives from American history.

Production

"On Swift Horses" is an American production directed by Daniel Minahan and written by Bryce Kass, based on the novel by Shannon Pufahl. Filming commenced in October 2023, showcasing a commitment to period accuracy and atmospheric setting for its 1950s narrative. The film brings together a notable ensemble cast, underscoring its ambition as a character-driven drama.

Production Companies:

• The Apartment (US)

• First Love (US)

Sales Companies

• A24 (United States): A24 acquired worldwide distribution rights to the film, indicating a strong belief in its potential and ensuring a significant international presence.

Distribution Companies

• A24 (Worldwide): A24 will handle the global distribution for "On Swift Horses," known for its critically acclaimed independent films and strategic release campaigns.

Theatrical Release

• Expected Theatrical Release: 2024 (Specific date TBD, likely Fall/Winter for awards consideration)

Why to Recommend This Movie

• Compelling Ensemble Cast: With talents like Jacob Elordi, Will Poulter, and Daisy Edgar-Jones, the film promises strong and nuanced performances.

• Intriguing Period Setting: The 1950s backdrop, ripe with societal repression and hidden desires, offers a fascinating exploration of a pivotal era.

• Acclaimed Source Material: Based on a well-received novel, the film has a strong narrative foundation that explores complex human relationships.

• Themes of Identity and Forbidden Love: It delves into universal struggles of self-discovery and the courage required to pursue love against societal odds.

• Director with Proven Track Record: Daniel Minahan's experience in character-driven dramas suggests a sensitive and powerful directorial approach.

Why to Watch Movie

• For Fans of Period Dramas and Neo-Noir: If you enjoy films with a stylish aesthetic, complex characters, and a sense of underlying tension, this film will appeal to you.

• To See Powerful Acting: The film is expected to be a showcase for its talented cast, delivering emotionally charged performances.

• If You Appreciate Stories of Love and Rebellion: It offers a poignant look at individuals defying societal norms in their search for genuine connection.

• To Experience a Nuanced LGBTQ+ Narrative: The film explores same-sex relationships within a historical context, contributing to diverse storytelling.

• For Thought-Provoking Cinema: "On Swift Horses" is likely to spark conversations about societal expectations, personal freedom, and the consequences of repression.

What Movie Trend film is following

Queer Period Dramas with a Neo-Noir Edge: This film aligns with a growing trend of period pieces that explore LGBTQ+ themes with a sophisticated, often melancholic, and visually striking aesthetic. Unlike earlier, more overtly dramatic "issue" films, these contemporary narratives frequently weave forbidden romance and identity into the fabric of a broader genre, such as neo-noir or psychological drama. They focus on the interior lives of characters facing societal constraints, using atmosphere and subtle performances to convey tension and desire, following in the footsteps of films like Carol or The Handmaiden.

What Big Social Trend is following

Reclaiming and Recontextualizing LGBTQ+ Histories: "On Swift Horses" contributes to the significant social trend of uncovering, re-examining, and bringing to light previously marginalized or suppressed LGBTQ+ histories. By setting a story of forbidden queer love in the 1950s, the film participates in a broader cultural movement to diversify historical narratives, challenge heteronormative interpretations of the past, and celebrate the resilience and existence of LGBTQ+ individuals across different eras. It highlights the struggles for identity and acceptance that resonate deeply with ongoing conversations about LGBTQ+ rights and visibility.

Final Verdict

"On Swift Horses" is poised to be a captivating and poignant cinematic experience, blending the allure of a classic Hollywood romance with the dark undertones of a neo-noir thriller. With Daniel Minahan's direction and a powerhouse cast bringing Shannon Pufahl's acclaimed novel to life, the film promises a sensitive yet unflinching exploration of forbidden love, identity, and the profound cost of freedom in a restrictive era. It is a film that will likely resonate deeply with audiences seeking both a beautiful love story and a thought-provoking commentary on societal pressures and personal liberation.

Recommendations for Filmmakers

• Embrace Historical Context for Deeper Meaning: Use specific historical periods not just as a backdrop, but as an integral part of the narrative that shapes character motivations and conflicts, especially regarding social norms.

• Prioritize Atmosphere and Mood: For neo-noir or period dramas, invest heavily in cinematography, production design, and sound to create an immersive and emotionally resonant atmosphere.

• Explore Nuance in Relationships: Even with clear romantic leads, delve into the complexities and ambiguities of human connections, allowing for unspoken desires and internal conflicts to drive the story.

• Trust Your Actors with Subtlety: When dealing with repression and forbidden desires, allowing actors to convey emotion through understated performances can be incredibly powerful.

• Adaptation Requires Interpretation: When adapting a novel, focus on translating its essence and emotional core to the screen, rather than a literal scene-by-scene recreation, to maximize cinematic impact.

Recommendations for Movie Industry

• Invest in LGBTQ+ Historical Narratives: Continue to fund and distribute films that shed light on diverse LGBTQ+ histories, enriching the cinematic landscape and promoting understanding.

• Support Auteur Directors with Unique Visions: Directors like Daniel Minahan who can blend genre elements with character-driven drama should be given the resources to realize their artistic ambitions.

• Champion Diverse Source Material: Actively seek out and adapt novels and other literary works that offer fresh perspectives and explore underrepresented stories.

• Strategically Market Independent Films with Star Power: Leverage strong ensemble casts to attract wider audiences to independent, character-driven dramas that might otherwise have a more niche appeal.

• Recognize the Enduring Relevance of Period Pieces: Understand that historical settings can provide powerful lenses through which to examine contemporary issues of identity, freedom, and societal acceptance.