Thoroughbreds, directed by Cory Finley, is a dark comedy-drama that centers around two teenage girls, Amanda and Lily, who live in a wealthy Connecticut suburb. Amanda (played by Olivia Cooke) is a disaffected teen who lacks empathy and has difficulty expressing or responding to emotions. Lily (played by Anya Taylor-Joy) is a privileged and ambitious young woman who is attempting to distance herself from her alcoholic stepfather, Mark (played by Paul Sparks).
The girls were once close friends, but over time, they grew apart due to their different personalities and interests. However, when Lily hires Amanda to tutor her in her SATs, the two begin to reconnect and bond over their shared disdain for Mark. Lily confesses to Amanda that she has been plotting to kill Mark, and Amanda proposes that they partner together to accomplish the task.
As the plot unfolds, it becomes clear that neither girl is entirely what she seems, and their personal and psychological issues begin to surface. Amanda’s apathy and emotionally detached demeanor belie deeper traumas and anxieties, while Lily’s polished exterior conceals a darker side.
The film’s titular Thoroughbreds, a breed of racehorse known for their speed and elegance, becomes a metaphor for the girls’ own seemingly flawless exteriors. The movie culminates in a suspenseful and bloody climax that serves up a disturbing commentary on privilege, class, and the price of ambition.
Overall, Thoroughbreds is a taut and thought-provoking film that delivers equal doses of black humor, suspense, and social critique. Its strong performances, sharp writing, and stylish visual aesthetic make it a standout addition to the crowded field of indie dramas and thrillers.
