Anya Taylor-Joy has become one of Hollywood's most captivating talents, thanks to breakout roles in The Witch, Furiosa, and Dune: Part Two. But before she conquered blockbuster franchises, she delivered a chilling performance in a small, under-the-radar thriller that deserves your attention. Thoroughbreds, released in 2017, pairs Taylor-Joy with House of the Dragon's Olivia Cooke in a dark, psychological mystery that remains one of the best in its genre.
A Unique Take on Teenage Darkness
Directed by Cory Finley in his feature debut, Thoroughbreds is far from your typical teen thriller. It dives into the twisted friendship between two affluent Connecticut girls, Lily (Taylor-Joy) and Amanda (Cooke). Amanda, who suffers from a condition that leaves her emotionally numb, reconnects with Lily, a popular student who agrees to tutor her. Their bond quickly turns sinister when Amanda suggests they murder Lily's abusive stepfather, Mark (Paul Sparks).
What sets Thoroughbreds apart is its refusal to paint its characters as simple villains or victims. Instead, Finley crafts complex, believable young women whose actions are both shocking and strangely logical. The film's 93-minute runtime is tight, wasting no time on unnecessary subplots. Every scene builds tension, leading to an ending that will leave you breathless.
Why It's a Hidden Gem
Unlike dark comedies like Heathers, Thoroughbreds embraces its darkness without leaning on humor. It explores the intensity of female friendship in a way that's rarely seen on screen. Lily and Amanda's loyalty to each other is expressed through violence, creating a bond that's both disturbing and oddly touching. This nuanced portrayal of morally ambiguous women is a breath of fresh air, especially in a landscape where female characters are often sanitized.
The film also benefits from stellar performances. Taylor-Joy brings a quiet intensity to Lily, while Cooke delivers a hauntingly detached portrayal of Amanda. Their chemistry is electric, making their descent into darkness all the more compelling.
Streaming and Similar Thrillers
If you're looking for more underrated thrillers, Joel Kinnaman's action thriller is another hidden gem worth checking out. For fans of psychological mysteries, Agatha Christie's essential mysteries offer classic twists. And if you enjoy stories about complex female characters, Ready or Not delivers a similarly dark, thrilling ride.
Thoroughbreds is a masterclass in tension and character study. It's a film that doesn't judge its characters, allowing viewers to sit with their discomfort and question their own moral compass. For those who appreciate smart, unsettling mysteries, this is a must-watch.
