Anya Taylor-Joy has become a household name thanks to standout roles in The Witch, Furiosa, and Dune: Part Two. But before she conquered blockbuster franchises, she delivered a quietly brilliant performance in a 2017 crime thriller that deserves far more attention. That film is Thoroughbreds, now streaming on Prime Video, and it's one of the best mystery thrillers you haven't seen.
Directed by Cory Finley in his feature debut, Thoroughbreds is a taut, 93-minute ride that refuses to let go. It pairs Taylor-Joy with House of the Dragon's Olivia Cooke, and together they create a chilling portrait of teenage girlhood that's both unsettling and utterly compelling. Unlike other stories about psychopathic teens, this one treats its characters as fully realized people—flawed, dangerous, and strangely sympathetic.
A Dark Bond Between Two Girls
The story unfolds in the wealthy suburbs of Connecticut, where Lily (Taylor-Joy) is a popular student who agrees to tutor the outcast Amanda (Cooke). Amanda suffers from a condition that leaves her unable to feel emotions, but she and Lily form an unexpected connection. When Amanda suggests they murder Lily's abusive stepfather, Mark (Paul Sparks), the plan spirals into a tense, unpredictable thriller.
Finley's script is a masterclass in building suspense. He doesn't judge his characters; instead, he lets their twisted loyalty speak for itself. The film's tight runtime means every scene matters, and the ending is a gut-punch that will leave you thinking long after the credits roll. For fans of the most perfect thriller shows of the last 20 years, this movie fits right in.
Why 'Thoroughbreds' Stands Out
What makes Thoroughbreds so effective is its refusal to soften its characters. Lily and Amanda aren't caricatures; they're complex, sometimes monstrous, and always fascinating. The film explores how love and violence can intertwine, especially in the intense world of teenage friendships. It's a rare story that embraces the darkness without flinching, much like Gillian Flynn's work in her psychological thrillers.
Critics have praised Finley's ability to write female characters with depth and agency. In a landscape where many stories shy away from showing women as irredeemable, Thoroughbreds dives headfirst into the abyss. The result is a mystery that's as much about character as it is about plot—a combination that makes it a hidden gem on Prime Video.
A Must-Watch for Thriller Fans
If you're looking for a movie that delivers suspense, sharp dialogue, and unforgettable performances, Thoroughbreds is it. It's a film that rewards repeat viewings, revealing new layers with each watch. For those who love psychological thrillers that hook you from the first frame, this is essential viewing.
Don't let this one slip through the cracks. Stream Thoroughbreds on Prime Video and discover why Anya Taylor-Joy's early career includes this underrated masterpiece.
