Jacob Elordi And Diego Calva’s Intense Motel Prep For “On Swift Horses”
Ever wondered what goes on behind closed doors? In the latest film by Daniel Minahan, On Swift Horses, we get a glimpse into a world of hidden desires and self-discovery. This 1950s-set drama, which premiered at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival, explores themes of love and identity through the eyes of its characters.
A Week in a Motel Room
Jacob Elordi and Diego Calva take center stage as Julius and Henry, two men navigating a secret romance. Their story unfolds in the confines of a motel room, where they spent a week in intensive preparation. Elordi shared with Vanity Fair, “Dan gave us a lot of freedom to run around and to play and to find that love within those four walls.” This freedom allowed them to bring authenticity to their roles, capturing the essence of a hidden world.
The film doesn’t shy away from exploring the depth of their connection. Described as having “steamy sexual chemistry,” Elordi and Calva deliver rich, emotional scenes that promise to captivate audiences. Daisy Edgar-Jones, who plays Muriel, calls On Swift Horses a “wonderfully queer” movie. Elordi adds that it’s a “sprawling, epic, nongeneric love story,” resonating with universal themes of love and acceptance.
A Classic Western Loner
On Swift Horses delves into the struggles faced by queer individuals in an era when expressing one’s true self was fraught with danger. As Variety Fair‘s David Canfield notes, Julius is portrayed as a classic Western loner, grappling with fear and betrayal. His journey is one of resilience and courage, reflecting the broader challenges of the time.
The film had its world premiere on September 7, 2024, at TIFF and is set for wider release soon. With its compelling narrative and powerful performances, On Swift Horses is poised to make an impact.
