On Swift Horses Cast Spill Secrets: How Dangerous Romances and Gambling Drive the Film

“On Swift Horses“ is a fresh romantic film directed by Daniel Minahan, adapted from Shannon Pufahl’s book of the same title. The plot unfolds in the 1950s and revolves around Muriel and her husband Lee, who establish their life together in California following Lee’s return from the Korean War. However, their peaceful existence is disrupted when Lee’s brother Julius arrives on the scene, leading to an unexpected romance between Muriel and Julius.

According to the review by ScreenRant’s On Swift Horses, one of the film’s standout aspects is its star-studded cast. Actress Daisy Edgar-Jones (known for Twisters and Normal People) plays Muriel, and she’s joined by Diego Calva (Babylon), Jacob Elordi (Saltburn), Will Poulter (Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3), and Sasha Calle (The Flash). This talented ensemble delves into both platonic and romantic love in a narrative that pushes each character to reconsider their own understanding of love’s definition.

In this conversation led by Joe Deckelmeier from ScreenRant, Daisy Edgar-Jones, Sasha Calle, Diego Calva, and director Daniel Minahan shared insights about their roles in the film “On Swift Horses”. They discussed the impact of Shannon Pufahl’s book on their performances and the emotional journeys portrayed by characters like Muriel. Furthermore, Minahan elaborated on the symbolic significance hidden within the numerous gambling sequences found throughout the movie.

Director Daniel Minahan Explains How His Own Life Inspired On Swift Horses

“A Love Story Is Only As Good As The Restraining Forces That Keep The Lovers Apart”

Daniel Minahan is accustomed to tales of romance, having directed and produced shows such as “Fellow Travelers”. However, the central relationship in “On Swift Horses”, specifically between Muriel and Julius portrayed by Jacob Elordi, resonated with a platonic romance that he himself had experienced. As Minahan put it, “The Shannon Pufahl novel captured it so eloquently”. In fact, he’s been trying to write a story about this unique relationship because he found it intriguing.

In film school, Minahan’s screenwriting teacher often left an impactful impression on him with two pieces of advice that still resonate today. The first was, “An event may have occurred to you, but that doesn’t necessarily make it intriguing.” Secondly, he emphasized, “The strength of a love story lies in the obstacles preventing the lovers from being together.” Regarding Muriel and Julius, Minahan felt their bond and affection surpassed typical romantic boundaries. They shared an intense platonic relationship reminiscent of twins in the world.

On Swift Horses Stars Explain Bringing The Movie’s Complicated Relationships To Life

“The Film Explores Love In All Its Forms”

Daisy Edgar-Jones described the movie as intriguingly delving into various aspects of love. The protagonist, Muriel, experiences different forms of love towards her husband Lee, her close friend Julius, and a neighbor woman named Sandra. Regarding this complex emotional landscape, Edgar-Jones commented: “The script was so moving, and Muriel’s journey so captivating – from her love for Lee, to her affection for Julius, to her growing feelings for Sandra, as well as her self-love, which she begins to cultivate. I found it exceptionally poetic.

Muriel is another character who is initially depicted living a rather ordinary domestic life. However, as the story unfolds, she gradually challenges societal norms, particularly with her growing interest in gambling and self-discovery regarding her sexuality. This was noted by Edgar-Jones when discussing the character.

The point when she attends Sandra’s party becomes a turning point in her life, shaping everything else that follows, and I adore narratives that delve into such transformative instances.

As Sandra transforms Muriel’s universe, Henry, portrayed by Diego Calva, affects Julius’. Calva shared his experience working alongside Jacob Elordi to build their on-screen chemistry: “Jacob is an incredibly dedicated actor. I prefer improvisation, and he enjoys rehearsing thoroughly, but at the same time, he’s courageous. If you don’t feel secure, you can’t venture out, and I found a great collaborator in Jacob.

Regarding safety, Sasha Calle stated that “Sandra fosters a highly secure environment for Muriel,” which is crucial for Muriel to delve into her sexuality. As Calle added, “She seems to notice something unique in her surroundings, and I believe she also desires to accept Muriel. Despite the complexities within their relationship, she yearns to affirm her, avoid judgment, and enable her to discover and nurture that affection and bond.

At the same time, Calle expressed, Sandra is truly authentic, courageous, and knows when to draw a line when things become too much and cause pain. I’m equally proud of her for this strength, as it takes courage to confront someone you’re beginning to care for deeply, risking losing that person in the process.

Gambling Is A Code For Queer Love In On Swift Horses

“This Is A Film About Characters Who Are Hiding Themselves”

Director Daniel Minahan has mentioned that the theme of gambling in the movie “On Swift Horses” symbolically represents hidden love between characters. To further explain, Minahan stated, “This film revolves around individuals concealing their true selves and people discovering one another. Thus, they spend a significant amount of time observing each other. In the catwalk, Henry and Julius watch cheaters below them, yet they share an unspoken bond.

As a cinephile, I found myself captivated by the scene where Muriel is observing her neighbor Sandra. The moment when they first meet sparks a transformation in Muriel that becomes evident. Intrigued, she inquires about Sandra living alone, and their romantic connection unfolds on the back porch at a later book party. At this point, Muriel expresses concern for Sandra’s solitude, asking, “Are you not afraid of being alone?” The narrative takes a risky turn as both characters seemingly bet on their wellbeing and true selves to navigate the potential perils lurking in their actions.

Daisy Edgar-Jones also discussed Muriel’s connection to the gambling world: “I find the scenes involving gambling quite intriguing. At first, she’s very guarded – wearing glasses or a scarf, and just trying to understand the atmosphere – but by the end, she transforms into a confident, powerful woman who embraces her newfound position. I admire how she challenges societal norms, and I appreciate characters that encourage me to do the same.

2025-04-30 00:38