Jacob Elordi has become the go-to romantic lead of his generation, from The Kissing Booth to Euphoria and the recent Wuthering Heights. But one of his lesser-known romance films is finally getting its moment in the spotlight. On Swift Horses, a 2025 LGBTQ drama that initially flew under the radar, is now climbing the streaming charts on HBO Max.

The film, directed by Daniel Minahan, stars Elordi alongside Daisy Edgar-Jones, Will Poulter, Sasha Calle, and Diego Calva. Set in the aftermath of the Korean War, it follows two brothers struggling to find stability. Elordi's character, Julius, begins a secret romance with a card cheat, while his brother's wife (Edgar-Jones) sets out on her own journey of self-discovery. Critics praised the cast and the film's exploration of society, sexuality, and morality, but the ending left some viewers wanting more. With a 53% Rotten Tomatoes score, it was never an awards contender—until now.

Read also
Streaming
Alan Ritchson Proves He's More Than an Action Hero in 'Ordinary Angels' Streaming Hit
Alan Ritchson's 'Ordinary Angels' is a streaming hit on Paramount+, proving his range beyond action roles. The drama co-stars Hilary Swank and has earned critical acclaim.

So why is On Swift Horses suddenly a hit? The answer lies in Elordi's other HBO Max titles. Wuthering Heights, co-starring Margot Robbie, and the long-awaited third season of Euphoria have both drawn massive audiences—despite mixed reviews. Their success has created a halo effect, pushing On Swift Horses to the No. 8 spot on FlixPatrol's streaming rankings. It's a classic case of a hidden gem finding its audience through the power of a star's broader filmography.

For fans of underrated romance dramas, this is a must-watch. The film's nuanced take on love and identity in a repressive era resonates deeply, even if its narrative stumbles. If you enjoyed Michael Fassbender's forgotten Western 'Slow West', you'll appreciate the quiet intensity of On Swift Horses.

What's Next for Jacob Elordi?

Elordi isn't slowing down. He'll star alongside Josh Brolin in The Dog Stars, a post-apocalyptic sci-fi thriller hitting theaters this August. He's also reuniting with Euphoria creator Sam Levinson for Outer Dark, an adaptation of Cormac McCarthy's novel, co-starring Lily-Rose Depp. Production is expected to begin later this year.

In the meantime, you can stream On Swift Horses, Wuthering Heights, and Euphoria on HBO Max. For more hidden streaming gems, check out our list of 5 underrated shows you probably missed.