The Strays (Netflix, 2023)
The Strays is the promising first feature from British writer and director Nathaniel Martello-White.
At first glance, this thriller-drama looks like a Harlan Coben story, but directed by Get Out-filmmaker Jordan Peele.
It’s about black privilege. But even more it is about how difficult it is for black people to be accepted into a white society that is only tolerant of them as long as they fit in.
It’s about Neve (Ashley Madekwe), who leads what can only be described as an idyllic life in the suburbs. She’s a black woman with a white husband, a teenage son of mixed race and a daughter who could pass for white. Which is kinda important, cause color is not just a black and white thing. (For reference, see the extraordinary movie Passing by Rebecca Hall).
By the way, did I tell you that Neve also has a good job at a private school? So it feels quite good to be part of the elite.
But then strange things begin to happen. A young man and woman begin to appear at odd moments, and after a while Neve begins to doubt her sanity.
As she is the only one seeing things, it is no surprise that no one believes her.
In a Harlan Coben series like The Stranger or Stay Close this would mean that the past is catching up with her. And that the skeletons are rapidly falling out of the closet.
But with a promising filmmaker like Nathaniel Martello-White there has to be a twist. Or two. Or a lot of them. And maybe there’s one or two too much.
The final half hour will not be to everybody’s liking, I can guarantee you that, but the grimness serves a purpose.
The ending makes sense in the context of the movie’s title, even though the story feels a bit inconclusive.
Maybe there’s room for a sequel, maybe not. I am looking forward to seeing more from this talented young filmmaker.