FREAKY TALES -- A Pulpy Good Time

Review by Adam Donato

Freaky Tales is the first feature directed by the duo of Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck since Captain Marvel, a film that made bank at the box office, but sullied their street cred due to middling reviews. Since then the pair has gone back to their sweet spot directing series like Mrs. America and Masters of the Air. This film is reminiscent of their television work as it’s a collection of interconnected stories split up into chapters. There’s minor connections, but for the most part these chapters stand alone. The film sports an ensemble cast including some pretty noteworthy names. With very little marketing, can this episodic genre film catch the eye of cinephiles and put these directors on the road to redemption?

The narrative touches on some serious subjects, but has little to nothing of substance to say about them. This isn’t a major problem as the film is more concerned with being a fun genre film. There’s elements of action, comedy, science fiction, and thriller all in here and it makes for a fun time. There’s a clear love for the central location of the film, which is Oakland. The setting permeates the story and the character as its essential to the whole film. It’s a fun thing when the city itself feels like a character in the movie. The format and tone is reminiscent of a movie like Trick ‘r Treat. While the stories start out very grounded, they elevate into being very high concept and everything feels like it comes together in a satisfying way. 

The first of four chapters focuses on a young emo couple that is part of a rising force against this evil gang of Nazis. Jack Champion, who plays Spider in the Avatar franchise, is heavily featured in this part. It’s also shown in 4:3 format, which is fun as during the fight sequence there’s a fun moment where the blood exits the frame and sits on the borders. Just a fun little detail. Chapter two brings an 8 Mile style musical element to the film, which keeps it feeling fresh. This part is headlined by artist Normani and Dominique Thorne who has worked with a string of acclaimed directors like Ryan Coogler, Barry Jenkins, and Shaka King. Their chemistry is great and it’s the most fun sequence of the film. Also, stay for the credits as they do a musical number through the end of the film. Pedro Pascal is the most high profile name in the film and he is the star of the third chapter. This section plays up the thriller aspect of the film and is great at keeping you guessing at what’s gonna happen next. The final chapter is an eruptus sci fi action sequence that ties all the loose threads together Ben Mendelsohn is obnoxiously experienced at playing a sinister bad guy and he does it here to perfection. Jay Ellis is the star of the show here though as he plays a NBA player with this green magic power. This is a larger element that is a part of every chapter. It allows for some pretty wild action and gore that’s worth the price of admission. 

Freaky Tales is definitely gonna fly under the radar, but a solid flick with no backlash is exactly what the doctor ordered for Boden and Fleck. Clearly, they’re doing just fine post Marvel and have a good enough relationship that this film is littered with MCU stars. It’s a pulpy good time and deserves more attention. Not that it’s a great movie or anything, but definitely a solid flick that’s worth a watch. 

Freaky Tales is in theaters now.

Rating: 3/5