After making its debut at the Sundance Film Festival last year, Esteban Arango’s Ponyboi is finally set to hit theaters this summer. The film, which features River Gallo in the lead role (who also wrote the screenplay), stars Dylan O’Brien, Murray Bartlett, Victoria Pedretti, and Indya Moore. Produced by FOX Entertainment Studios under their new Tideline banner, the film is scheduled for a June 27 release and will adopt a unique direct-to-audience theatrical distribution strategy developed by GATHR. Ahead of the release, the first official trailer has been unveiled.
The film tells the story of Ponyboi (Gallo), a young sex worker whose life is turned upside down when a drug deal goes wrong. Over the course of a single day, Ponyboi is forced to go on the run from both the mob and his abusive pimp, played by Dylan O’Brien. In his desperate search for freedom, he finds an unlikely ally in a mysterious cowboy named Bruce, portrayed by Murray Bartlett. Together, they navigate New Jersey’s gritty underworld as Ponyboi strives to escape the dangerous world that has trapped him.
Ponyboi blends traditional crime thriller elements with moments of campy romance, creating a unique narrative style. As critic John Fink noted in his review, the film’s combination of stark violence and tender, sincere moments adds depth to Ponyboi’s character and worldview. Gallo’s screenplay showcases a perspective rarely seen on screen, exploring a character who rejects societal expectations and refuses to conform to the world’s standards. The film is also marked by its striking visual contrasts, shifting between the harsh realities of Ponyboi’s life and the heartfelt, intimate moments he shares with Bruce. One such scene features drag artist Chiquitita serenading the pair to Kali Uchis’ song “Melting” in a bar, exemplifying the film’s tender side amidst its darker themes.
Ponyboi is a compelling exploration of identity, survival, and the search for freedom. The film promises a fresh perspective on the genre, bringing together elements of crime, romance, and self-discovery. With its thoughtful direction and heartfelt performances, Ponyboi is one to watch when it hits theaters later this month.
Related topics:
“The Summer I Turned Pretty” Returns for Final Season
Summer H Howell Cast as Carrie in Mike Flanagan’s New TV Series
Belly’s Journey in ‘The Summer I Turned Pretty’ Finale