The moment Freaky Tales kicks off, you know you’re in for a ride. It’s 1987 in Oakland, where neon signs flicker, punk music thrashes, and danger lurks in every alleyway. But this isn’t just any ‘80s nostalgia trip—this is a film bursting at the seams with energy, attitude, and a righteous sense of justice. Directed by the dynamic duo Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck, Freaky Tales unfolds in four interwoven chapters, each one packed with rebellion, redemption, and a whole lot of style.
The film takes us through a night where underdogs rise up and fight back—sometimes literally. A group of punk rockers clash with neo-Nazis who think they own the streets. A hip-hop battle turns into a stand for respect and recognition. A weary enforcer faces his final job before a chance at a new life. And a legendary basketball player sets out for revenge with an intensity that feels straight out of a myth. Tying it all together is a mysterious supernatural force, crackling through the city like green lightning, nudging each protagonist toward their moment of reckoning.
And oh, does Freaky Tales deliver on the reckoning. The fight scenes? Brutal. The dialogue? Razor-sharp. The style? Dripping with that perfect blend of B-movie action and vintage cool. Each chapter feels distinct yet cohesive, switching up aspect ratios, color palettes, and even visual storytelling techniques to fit its vibe. It’s a cinematic mixtape, each track building up to an explosive finale.
What makes Freaky Tales so exhilarating is how it blends its influences with a fresh, unfiltered edge. It’s got the rebellious spirit of The Warriors, the gritty neon aesthetic of Drive, and the kind of blood-spattered, crowd-cheering moments that make you want to stand up and yell. Killing Nazis has never looked cooler, and if that makes you uncomfortable, well… maybe this isn’t the movie for you. The action is as over-the-top as it is cathartic, with enemies being taken down in ways that almost feel operatic—think fountains of blood and perfectly timed punches that send bodies flying.
But let’s talk about the real MVPs: the cast. This ensemble is stacked, and everyone brings their A-game. Ji-young Yoo is fierce and fearless, holding her own in a world that’s constantly trying to push her down. Pedro Pascal once again proves why he’s one of Hollywood’s most compelling actors, playing a man who’s good at being bad but just might have a shot at something better. And let’s not forget the rap battle duo played by Dominique Thorne and Normani, whose electrifying performance makes their segment one of the most satisfying moments in the film. Even Tom Hanks, in a surprising and uncharacteristically offbeat role, manages to steal the show with his portrayal of a passionate yet questionable video store owner.
Beyond its unyielding energy and standout performances, Freaky Tales carries something that feels almost rare in today’s cinema—swagger. It doesn’t try to be anything other than exactly what it is, and that’s part of its charm. The soundtrack pulses with an undeniable rhythm, each track a perfectly placed anthem that amplifies every rebellious moment. The costumes? They do more than just set the scene; they announce the era—punk-studded jackets and jewelry that’s as lethal as it is stylish, combining grit with a touch of glam. And the way the film blends animation into its narrative to bring dreams and memories to life? It’s a subtle, almost delicate flourish that adds depth without overshadowing the chaos. It’s a reminder that in the midst of all the noise, there’s still room for beauty.
At its core, Freaky Tales is about standing up, fighting back, and taking control of your own narrative. It’s about finding power in community, in music, in art, and sometimes in a really well-timed punch to a Nazi’s face. The film doesn’t waste time moralizing or sugarcoating the harsh realities of its world—it simply drops you into the chaos and lets you revel in it.
Is it violent? Absolutely. Is it over-the-top? Without a doubt. But what makes Freaky Tales stand out is how effortlessly it pulls you into its chaotic world. This is the kind of movie best watched with a crowd, where every gasp, chuckle, and whispered "no way" adds to the experience.
Freaky Tales has all the makings of becoming a cult classic. It has that scrappy, fearless energy that lingers long after the credits roll. Whether you're here for the action, the music, the revenge, or just to see some Nazis get what’s coming to them, this film finds a way to keep you hooked. It doesn’t just tell a story—it throws you headfirst into the madness. So settle in, let the neon glow of 1987 Oakland wash over you, and enjoy the ride. It’s messy, bold, and completely in its own lane—just the way it should be.
Directors: Anna Boden, Ryan Fleck
Cast: Too $hort, Ji-young Yoo, Pedro Pascal
Writers: Anna Boden, Ryan Fleck
Producers: Anna Boden, Ryan Fleck, Poppy Hanks, Jelani Johnson
Music: Raphael Saadiq
Cinematography: Jac Fitzgerald
Editor: Robert Komatsu