Suburban Connecticut, preppy families, immaculately trimmed lawns, and lots of horseback riding. What could go wrong? According to the 2018 drama-thriller “Thoroughbreds,” a lot. Written and directed by newcomer Cory Finley, “Thoroughbreds” tells the story of two disaffected, rebellious teenage girls who, after years of estrangement, reunite in order to plot a murder. The two teens, Lily (Anya-Taylor Joy) and Amanda (Olivia Cooke), plan out the vicious killing of Lily’s controlling stepfather.
Although the two girls seem completely different at first, with one attending a posh boarding school, and the other, a total social outcast, they have far more in common than meets the eye. As they rekindle their friendship, the two girls begin to bring out the most destructive behavior in each other (which ultimately reaches its peak with a bloody murder), all the while creating a strong yet highly disturbing bond.
Cooke is particularly excellent in her role as Amanda, who, as the movie claims “feels nothing.” Her deadpan facial expressions bring some much-needed comedic relief to this otherwise dark story, and her delivery is especially powerful. She is certainly a rising star and someone you will see much more of in the future. The film also includes Anton Yelchin in his final role prior to his tragic death, as Tim, a local hitman.
The one disappointing aspect of the film is that it never quite settles on a particular purpose, point, or message. Ultimately, the storyline never materializes into something bigger– not to say that murder isn’t a major plot point, but the overall story is a letdown. However, the visuals are beautifully shot and convey the emotions of the two main characters– beautiful on the outside but completely empty on the inside. Overall, “Thoroughbreds” is a movie that is worth seeing for its gorgeous direction and setting, but certainly don’t expect to leave the theater feeling satisfied by the story itself.
“Thoroughbreds” is rated R and is currently showing at a few theaters in Los Angeles, including Vintage Los Feliz Theatre, Laemmle’s Playhouse 7, and ArcLight Hollywood.
Featured image source: Thoroughbreds’ official Instagram.