Yesterday, April 25, 2025, marked the U.S. theatrical release of On Swift Horses, a sultry, slow-burning queer drama that’s already igniting conversations—and pulses.
Directed by Daniel Minahan and adapted from Shannon Pufahl’s 2019 novel, the film stars Jacob Elordi, Diego Calva, Daisy Edgar-Jones, and Will Poulter in a tangled web of postwar longing, repression, and forbidden love.
Set in 1950s America, the story follows newlyweds Muriel (Edgar-Jones) and Lee (Poulter) as they attempt to build a life in California after Lee’s return from the Korean War.
Their domestic tranquility is disrupted by the arrival of Lee’s charismatic brother Julius (Elordi), a restless gambler with secrets of his own.
Julius soon departs for Las Vegas, where he embarks on a passionate affair with Henry (Calva), a Mexican casino worker.
Meanwhile, Muriel finds herself drawn to her neighbor Sandra (Sasha Calle), leading her into a clandestine world of horse racing and self-discovery.
The film has garnered attention for its intimate scenes, particularly between Elordi and Calva.
In interviews, Calva described filming these moments as “intimidating,” praising Elordi’s physical perfection and noting the challenges posed by their height difference.
“He’s like a f***ing god! He’s too perfect!” Calva exclaimed, adding that he experienced neck pain from looking up during their scenes together.
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Despite these challenges, Calva emphasized that the scenes were about “actual love,” highlighting the tenderness and authenticity portrayed on screen.
Critics have offered mixed reviews. RogerEbert.com praised Elordi’s performance, noting his ability to convey vulnerability beneath a confident exterior.
However, some reviews, such as from the Washington Post, pointed to uneven pacing and underdeveloped character arcs.
Nonetheless, the film’s exploration of queer identities and its atmospheric portrayal of 1950s America have been widely acknowledged.
Currently, On Swift Horses is now exclusively available in U.S. theaters.
International releases are scheduled for France on April 30 and Spain on July 25.
While not yet available for streaming, the film is expected to arrive on Netflix around August 2025, following standard release schedules.
Whether you’re drawn by the star-studded cast, the evocative storytelling, or the film’s exploration of hidden desires, On Swift Horses promises a cinematic experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
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