“I think the thing about the 1950s is that it was a time when anyone who was living on the margins was really limited in how much freedom they had, how much they could express themselves, how much they could be themselves,” says screenwriter Bryce Kass about On Swift Horses, portaying the struggles of individuals seeking connection and self-discovery in a time of rigid societal expectations.

On Swift Horses is a heartfelt romantic drama based on Shannon Pufahl’s 2019 novel, directed by Daniel Minahan and adapted for the screen by Bryce Kass.

Based on a novel, the movie follows characters as they navigate complex relationships and societal expectations, offering a deeply emotional and thought-provoking experience. The film has been praised for its nuanced performances, evocative cinematography, and rich storytelling, making it a standout in contemporary cinema. It delves into the intricacies of human connection, portraying the struggles of its protagonists with remarkable depth.

Minahan and producer Peter Spears were searching for a compelling love story when they both came across the book independently. They were immediately drawn to its unique characters and themes. Kass worked closely with director Minahan and Spears to bring the novel’s themes and characters to life on screen.

Inspiration & Adaptation

The adaptation of On Swift Horses from novel to screenplay was a meticulous process led by Kass, who worked to translate Shannon Pufahl’s rich prose into a cinematic experience. Kass had to navigate the novel’s complex structure, and find ways to externalise the characters’ emotions for the screen. The adaptation process involved refining dialogue, restructuring scenes for dramatic impact, and ensuring that the film’s pacing matched the emotional depth of the novel.

Kass was inspired to adapt On Swift Horses into a screenplay after reading Pufahl’s novel during the summer lockdown. He was immediately struck by the uniqueness of the characters and the richness of the story. Kass found the novel’s alternating timelines and deep interior monologues fascinating, and he saw an opportunity to externalize those elements to make the story more cinematic.

“It was definitely during summer lockdown that I read the book. I was immediately struck because I had never seen characters like this before,” says Kass.” Right away I knew there was so much to play with. The book itself is actually very different than what we see on screen, but it’s incredible—it’s one of the most beautiful books I’ve ever read.”

He also recognized the novel’s influences from great queer writers like Gore Vidal, James Baldwin, and Patricia Highsmith, as well as film noir and melodrama. These inspirations helped shape the screenplay’s tone and style, making it a compelling adaptation.

The team worked closely with the novel’s themes of longing and self-discovery, ensuring that the cinematography reflected the emotional depth of the characters. The choice of muted tones and shadow-heavy scenes helped enhance the film’s noir-inspired atmosphere. The 1950s setting was recreated with meticulous attention to detail, from wardrobe choices to the locations that captured the feeling of postwar America.

Actors were encouraged to dive into the literary source material to inform their performances, making sure every scene was infused with authenticity. The collaborative efforts between the screenwriter, director, and cast ensured that the film honoured the novel’s essence while making it visually compelling.

The Actors were drawn to the Screenplay

The principal actors in On Swift Horses—Daisy Edgar-Jones, Jacob Elordi, Will Poulter, Diego Calva, and Sasha Calle—were drawn to the screenplay because of its deeply emotional storytelling and historical significance.

• Jacob Elordi, portraying Julius, connected with the screenplay’s exploration of identity and personal freedom. He appreciated how the film reimagines the American dream through a queer lens, making it a unique and powerful story. Elordi’s was particularly drawn to how the story reimagines the American dream through a queer lens, offering a fresh and compelling perspective on self-discovery. Elordi’s approach to the role was shaped by an understanding of the 1950s setting, where personal freedom was often restricted, making Julius’s choices feel even more impactful.
• Will Poulter, playing Lee, was intrigued by the complexity of his character, who serves as both a supportive figure and an unconventional antagonist. He saw the role as an opportunity to explore themes of masculinity and repression. Poulter’s found the role compelling because it allowed him to explore themes of masculinity, repression, and personal conflict, particularly in the context of 1950s societal expectations.
• Diego Calva, who plays Henry, was inspired by the film’s depiction of hidden queer lives in the 1950s. He felt the screenplay captured the struggles and joys of characters who had to navigate love in secrecy. Calva approached Henry’s character with an understanding of how societal pressures forced people to conceal their true selves, making every moment of tenderness and connection even more powerful. His performance captures the quiet intensity of Henry’s love story, bringing authenticity and emotional depth to the role.
• Sasha Calle, portraying Sandra, was drawn to the film’s rich emotional depth and the way it portrays unconventional relationships with honesty and nuance. Calle’s interactions with Muriel (Daisy Edgar-Jones) reveal layers of vulnerability and desire, creating a powerful emotional arc. She appreciated how the film doesn’t shy away from the complexities of love, instead embracing the quiet, transformative moments that shape the characters’ journeys.
• Daisy Edgar-Jones was deeply drawn to the screenplay because it explored self–discovery and unconventional relationships. She appreciated how the story allowed her character, Muriel, to evolve in unexpected ways, challenging societal norms of the 1950s. Edgar-Jones highlighted the romantic-platonic bond between Muriel and Julius (Jacob Elordi), describing it as a mirror that reflects different versions of Muriel’s life.

The actors worked closely with director Minahan and Kass to ensure their performances reflected the novel’s essence while making the characters feel authentic on screen

Director Daniel Minahan described the film’s approach to intimacy as something that “transcends even sexuality,” particularly in the relationship between Julius (Jacob Elordi) and Muriel (Daisy Edgar-Jones). Their bond is portrayed as a platonic romance that carries an emotional depth beyond traditional romantic connections. Minahan noted that their dynamic is about recognising each other’s truths and finding confidence in their identities through that connection.

Muriel’s journey into self-discovery also involves exploring her own desires, particularly through her relationship with Sandra (Sasha Calle). Her realisation that love can exist in multiple forms adds layers to her character’s emotional arc, making her exploration of intimacy feel authentic and transformative.

For Julius and Henry (Diego Calva), their love story unfolds in secrecy, reflecting the societal pressures of the time. Their intimate moments are carefully crafted to highlight both passion and restraint, showing the tension between desire and the need for discretion. The film captures the quiet, stolen moments that define their relationship, making their connection feel both tender and urgent.

On Swift Horses Explores Themes of Love, Identity, and Personal Discovery

The film On Swift Horses is a deeply evocative exploration of human connection, set against the backdrop of 1950s America. It delves into themes of love, identity, and self-discovery, following characters who navigate societal expectations while searching for personal freedom.

Love in Its Many Forms

The film examines love beyond traditional boundaries, portraying relationships that challenge societal norms. It explores the exhilaration of new love, the pain of unrequited affection, and the complexities of desire. The characters’ interactions highlight the emotional depth of human relationships, making love a central force that drives the narrative.

Identity and Self-Discovery

Each character in On Swift Horses embarks on a journey of self-discovery, confronting their desires and fears. The film captures the struggle of individuals who feel constrained by their environment, emphasizing the importance of personal freedom and authenticity. The historical setting adds depth to this theme, illustrating how identity was shaped by the limitations of the era.

The Pursuit of Freedom

Freedom—both physical and emotional—is a recurring theme. The characters seek liberation from societal expectations, whether through travel, gambling, or secret relationships. The film portrays the tension between longing for stability and the desire to break free, making it a poignant reflection on personal agency.

You can watch On Swift Horses on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play, where it’s available for rent. The film had a limited theatrical release on April 25, 2025, and became available on VOD platforms starting May 27, 2025

---