Thoroughbreds (2017) (In Hindi)

Thoroughbreds (2017): A Dark, Stylish Crime Drama Exploring Complex Female Friendships

Introduction

"Thoroughbreds" is a 2017 American crime drama film that uniquely blends dark humor, psychological tension, and a glimpse into the troubled minds of its two central characters. This intense, stylish film dives deep into the nuanced, sometimes toxic relationship between two teenage girls grappling with trauma, ambition, and morality. Directed by Cory Finley in his feature directorial debut and written by Finley himself, the film distinguishes itself through sharp dialogue, atmospheric tension, and outstanding performances, especially from its leading actresses Olivia Cooke and Anya Taylor-Joy.

Plot Summary

Set in suburban Connecticut, the storyline revolves primarily around two upper-class teenage girls, Lily and Amanda, whose friendship reawakens after several years apart. Lily, portrayed by Olivia Cooke, is an emotionally detached and socially awkward girl living under the roof of her stepfather, whom she dislikes and fears. Anya Taylor-Joy plays Amanda, a sophisticated and somewhat amoral young woman who has been raised in a wealthy and privileged environment but struggles with her own emotional detachment and moral ambiguity.

As the narrative unfolds, Lily and Amanda rekindle their friendship and bond over their mutual dissatisfaction with their lives and surroundings. Amanda introduces Lily to a world of intrigue and manipulation, and together they devise a plan to solve their problems by plotting to murder Lily's stepfather. The tension between their calculated coldness and underlying vulnerabilities drives the film’s dramatic arc.

This dark coming-of-age story is meticulously crafted and explores themes of adolescent detachment, moral ambiguity, the impact of emotional trauma, and the complexity inherent in female friendships. It presents a fresh take on the crime genre by concentrating not just on the act itself but the psychological interplay and consequences behind it.

Main Cast

• Olivia Cooke as Lily: Olivia delivers a compelling performance as Lily, a girl caught in the emotional turmoil of her dysfunctional family. Cooke captures the character’s quiet intensity, vulnerability, and subtle emotional shifts with great nuance.
• Anya Taylor-Joy as Amanda: Anya’s portrayal of Amanda is one of the film’s highlights. Her elegant, icy demeanor often conceals the complexity and cold calculation beneath. Taylor-Joy’s performance brings a captivatingly enigmatic presence that is simultaneously alluring and unsettling.
• Paul Sparks as Mark: Paul Sparks plays Mark, Lily’s manipulative and unsavory stepfather. His character is a central figure in Lily’s emotional conflict and the catalyst for much of the story's tension.
• Anton Yelchin as Tim: In a memorable supporting role, the late Anton Yelchin plays Tim, an acquaintance who becomes a key figure in the girls’ scheme. His portrayal adds a subtle layer of empathy and complexity to the plot.

Director and Writer: Cory Finley

Cory Finley makes a powerful directorial debut with "Thoroughbreds," showcasing his skill as both director and screenwriter. Finley’s screenplay deftly balances dark comedy with psychological drama, layering crisp, clever dialogue with a slow-building suspense that keeps the audience engaged. His direction is marked by meticulous attention to visual style, pacing, and character depth, creating a film capable of provoking thought and discomfort simultaneously.

Style and Themes

"Thoroughbreds" is stylistically polished, featuring a cool, almost clinical aesthetic that underscores the emotional detachment and moral ambiguity of its protagonists. The suburban Connecticut setting is presented with eerie calmness, reflecting the underlying tensions and deceit lurking beneath the surface.

The film explores difficult themes such as sociopathy, privilege, trauma, and the manipulative dynamics of friendship. Its examination of how two young women use one another to satisfy personal desires and escape emotional pain reveals a disturbing but enthralling psychological portrait.

Reception

Upon release, "Thoroughbreds" garnered positive critical acclaim, particularly praising the performances of Cooke and Taylor-Joy, as well as Finley’s sharp writing and direction. Critics admired its subversion of typical teen drama tropes and its insightful exploration of character psychology. Though it didn’t achieve major commercial success, the film has developed a strong cult following for its distinctive voice and bold narrative choices.

Conclusion

In summary, "Thoroughbreds" (2017) stands out as a compelling and sophisticated crime drama. With fearless performances by Olivia Cooke and Anya Taylor-Joy, a gripping and original screenplay by Cory Finley, and a mood that lingers long after viewing, it is a film that invites reflection on the darker aspects of human nature and relationships. It is highly recommended for audiences interested in character-driven psychological thrillers that thoughtfully challenge genre conventions.

Further Information

For more details, cast and crew information, and audience reviews, you can visit the official IMDb page: Thoroughbreds (2017) on IMDb.

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