Freaky Tales is an action-comedy anthology film set in 1987, Oakland, California. Written and directed by Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck, the film intertwines four connected stories that reflect the city’s dynamic culture and its diverse subcultures. Oakland in the ’80s was fascinating. It was a mix of economic hardship, gang activity, with an explosive music and hip-hop scene. All while teetering on the edge of gentrification. To say it was wild is an understatement.

The film kicks off with a deliberately grainy, VHS-style look. The film also features nostalgic, over-the-top graphics that immediately told me not to take any of this too seriously. Instead, the film encourages viewers to dive into the playful spirit of a lo-fi, 80s-inspired adventure and retro charm. The film doesn’t hold back when it comes to portraying the city’s raw, gritty atmosphere. The film explores themes like corruption, pride, chosen family, and revenge, but those are just the surface layers of what Freaky Tales has to offer, all set to Oakland’s own, Too $hort.

FREAKY TALES IS A BLAST OF AN ANTHOLOGY

The first storyline is rooted in the Oakland punk scene, centering on two teenage best friends. As they defend their club from neo-Nazis, they also fall in love with each other. Jack Champion (Scream) and Ji-young Yoo (Moxie) are adorable together. I loved watching the two of them navigate the world and each other. I was honestly shocked to see neo-Nazi Skinheads featured, but I couldn’t help but feel a sense of satisfaction when they got what was coming to them.

The next storyline follows two female rappers, Entice, who are chasing their big break. After meeting a music producer, they’re invited to participate in a freestyle rap battle against the legendary Too $hort. The way his music is woven into the scene is brilliant! I forgot it was one of his tracks rewritten into a battle. This is Normani’s (Fifth Harmony) film debut, and she did an excellent job. She plays opposite Dominique Thorne (Iron Heart), and the two women have spectacular chemistry.

The next storyline follows Pedro Pascal as a retired “man for hire” who is pulled back into his criminal past after his “last job” takes an unexpected turn. This chapter has the most heart as it leads viewers to the most devastating. The final segment offers a unique twist on the tale of Sleepy Floyd, transforming him into an unlikely superhero in a story full of surprises. Insecure’s Jay Ellis portrays the iconic basketball player as he transforms via the green lighting into a revenge-seeking anti-hero. This segment was an absolute blast and a love letter to Quentin Tarantino and Kung Fu movies of the past.

Freaky Tales had me fully entertained. I enjoyed getting to know the characters while simultaneously trying to figure out how all the pieces of this fascinating puzzle click together. This has made it to my top 10 films of the year so far!