On Swift Horses Explores Queer Longing in 1950s America

On Swift Horses, directed by Daniel Minahan and adapted from Shannon Pufahl's novel, is a visually striking period drama set on the fringes of 1950s America, focusing on characters exploring their identities and sexuality in a repressive era. The film centers on Muriel and her brother-in-law Julius, both of whom embark on parallel journeys of self-discovery, with Julius's queerness and Muriel's relationships—including one with her neighbor Sandra—serving as focal points for themes of longing and personal risk. The film is distinguished by its careful attention to period costume and style, with designer Jeriana San Juan aiming to support authentic character expression rather than merely showcase vintage fashion. Critics praise the film's lush cinematography and the magnetic performances of Jacob Elordi and Daisy Edgar-Jones, but note that its narrative is often emotionally restrained, prioritizing visual allure over deep character development. The movie's depiction of gambling and risk serves as a metaphor for the characters' pursuit of freedom and love outside societal norms. While the film excels as a tone poem to the era's aesthetics and the frustrations of hidden desires, some reviewers find its storytelling dramatically inert beneath its polished surface.