Jacob Elordi, best known for his roles in Euphoria and Saltburn, is set to star in the upcoming queer drama On Swift Horses. The film, which is based on Shannon Pufahl’s acclaimed novel, will be released in the U.S. on April 25.
On Swift Horses takes place in the 1950s and follows the complex lives of its central characters. Elordi plays Julius, a Korean War veteran who transitions into a gambler. The film explores his intricate relationships with a married couple, Muriel and Lee, played by Daisy Edgar-Jones (Normal People) and Will Poulter (The Bear, The Maze Runner). Despite her marriage to Lee, Muriel finds herself drawn to Julius, the younger brother of her husband, setting the stage for a compelling love triangle.
While Julius and Muriel are separated by distance, their connection remains strong. As the story unfolds, Julius embarks on a passionate affair with Henry, portrayed by Diego Calva (Narcos: Mexico), whom he meets in a Las Vegas casino. The love triangle at the heart of the film examines themes of longing, identity, and forbidden desire, set against the backdrop of post-war America.
The film also showcases a talented ensemble cast, including Andrew Keenan-Bolger, known for his work in theater, adding another layer of depth to the story. The movie has garnered significant attention since its premiere at the Toronto Film Festival in September, particularly for its “dream-like” queer sex scenes, which have been described as both intimate and powerful.
The film is directed by Daniel Minahan, whose previous work includes directing episodes of Game of Thrones, True Blood, and Fellow Travelers. Minahan said he was particularly drawn to On Swift Horses because it offers “a re-imagining of the American dream, except through a queer lens.” He noted that Pufahl’s novel tells the story of characters who are “hiding themselves, watching, exploring, and trying to find themselves.” Minahan emphasized that the narrative is not tragic, but ends on a hopeful note—a key element that he and his team were committed to preserving.
“I was really attracted to the idea that these characters connect in a way that feels like a search for something deeper, but it’s not tragic,” Minahan said. “It’s a story about exploration and hope, which felt like something important to me.”
The screenplay for On Swift Horses was adapted by Bryce Kass, whose writing credits include Lizzie (2018). Kass’ script brings Pufahl’s novel to life with vivid character development and emotional depth, carefully balancing the historical setting with contemporary themes of identity and love.
The film also marks a significant moment for LGBTQ+ representation in Hollywood, with its exploration of queer love in a 1950s setting—a time when such relationships were often hidden from view. The film is expected to resonate with audiences who are drawn to narratives of self-discovery, love, and the pursuit of personal freedom, set against the constraints of societal expectations.
Daisy Edgar-Jones and Jacob Elordi’s chemistry is one of the key draws of the film, with critics already praising their performances. Elordi’s portrayal of Julius promises to be both intense and vulnerable, while Edgar-Jones brings a sense of longing and complexity to Muriel’s character. Together, the pair creates a compelling dynamic that is sure to captivate audiences.
The film’s atmosphere is enhanced by its striking visuals and evocative cinematography, which transports viewers to the vibrant yet tense world of mid-20th-century America. With its blend of romance, drama, and queer representation, On Swift Horses is positioned to become a landmark film in both the queer cinema genre and mainstream storytelling.
Alongside Elordi, Edgar-Jones, Poulter, and Calva, the film features performances from a talented supporting cast, further elevating the story. Minahan’s direction, combined with Kass’ screenplay, ensures that On Swift Horses is not only an exploration of love and identity but also an examination of a pivotal moment in American history.
As the release date approaches, fans of Elordi and queer cinema alike are eagerly anticipating the film’s debut. On Swift Horses promises to be a visually stunning and emotionally resonant exploration of love, self-discovery, and the pursuit of happiness in a world that often tries to keep people hidden.
For those interested in a unique perspective on love and identity, On Swift Horses is a film to watch out for.
