Is Strange Darling Based On A True Story? Here’s What We Know

The unconventional film titled “Strange Darling” has garnered significant attention due to its impressive critical and audience ratings on Rotten Tomatoes. This independent production delves into an intriguing storyline, presenting a one-night stand between characters Willa Fitzgerald (The Lady) and Kyle Gallner (“Smile” and “Jennifer’s Body” actor, The Demon). The narrative swiftly spirals into a chaotic mix of murder, substance abuse, and chaos. However, the authenticity of its origins has been left somewhat ambiguous. Although the film starts with a title card stating it is based on true events, director-writer JT Mollner has been evasive about its real-life parallels. When questioned by CBR.com, he merely hinted at the possibility, responding with “Perhaps!” when asked if the movie was inspired by a real case.

He also recommended that you explore the movie as much as you’d prefer and make up your own mind about its truthfulness. He chose not to delve further into the subject, fearing that more information might inadvertently reveal too much and spoil the movie entirely. Moreover, he mentioned that while making the film, it seemed incredibly authentic to him. It appears that there are numerous serial killers similar to The Electric Lady who have asserted they killed in the name of God due to being surrounded by evil, like Dennis Rader, or even because they idolize serial killers. Throughout the movie, The Lady refers to one such serial killer.

The Lady mentions a real-life serial killer during Strange Darling

The Lady, on the brink of being handed over, pleads for her life with The Demon and expresses a desire to die like Gary Gilmore, a notorious serial killer who was eventually executed by firing squad. Gilmore’s story was famously chronicled by Norman Mailer in “The Executioner’s Song,” and later adapted into a film by Tommy Lee Jones. Ironically, the Lady meets her end by being shot, albeit in self-defense, mirroring the kind of death she had requested.

In the movie’s climax, as I guide The Lady back towards civilization alongside Officer Pete, he inquires about her actions. She responds by viewing everyone around her as monstrous entities, demons. As her life fades away, she even sees a demon in her own reflection. Ironically, when the moment comes for her to defend or save herself from death, she remains motionless – eliminating the last demon, not through external force, but by her own choice. Quite thought-provoking, no matter how you look at it.

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2025-06-08 22:29