In the vibrant and tumultuous backdrop of New Jersey, 'Ponyboi' explores the depths of love, identity, and survival through the lens of its compelling protagonist. River Gallo takes on the titular role of Ponyboi, a young intersex sex worker navigating the perilous streets on Valentine’s Day. This unique setting adds an emotional layer to the story as the holiday associated with love and connection starkly contrasts the harsh realities Ponyboi faces. As the narrative unfolds, we witness his struggle for acceptance not just from the outside world, but also internally as he grapples with his identity and past.
The story takes a dramatic turn when a seemingly routine drug deal goes awry, plunging Ponyboi into a world of danger as he finds himself on the run from the mob. Alongside him is Vinnie, played by Dylan O'Brien, whose character provides both conflict and camaraderie amidst the chaos. Their interactions serve as a catalyst for Ponyboi's character development, forcing him to confront painful memories and make crucial decisions about his future. Vinnie's presence complicates Ponyboi's journey, highlighting themes of attachment and betrayal in their high-stakes environment.
Through its gripping plot and richly drawn characters, 'Ponyboi' paints a vivid portrait of resilience in the face of adversity. The film is not just about survival; it's a poignant exploration of love in its various forms, challenging societal norms and expectations. The cinematography enhances this narrative, capturing both the grim realities of the underworld and the fleeting moments of beauty and connection that can exist even in the darkest circumstances. In essence, 'Ponyboi' is a heartfelt ode to the struggles of finding one’s place in the world while holding onto hope and love.
Critics' Reviews
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The deepest parts of the film are the scenes between Ponyboi and Bruce (Murray Bartlett), a guy in a cowboy hat driving a Mustang, who enters the laundromat one night. The two strike up a conversation. There’s an instant chemistry, but it’s an ambiguous one, not just sexual. It’s like two souls are meeting. The dialogue doesn’t sound like words on a page. It sounds like how people talk: “I’m Bruce.” “Oh, like Springsteen.” “Are you a fan?” “Every Jersey girl is.” “What's your favorite song?” “That’s tough. Probably ‘I’m on Fire’. You know that one?” It’s hypnotic. He encourages Ponyboi to sing a little bit, and the two sing “I’m on Fire.” They are standing in a grimy, fluorescent-lit laundromat, with a sleazy sex room in the back, and they have created a safe space of play and connection. Bruce exits the film, but he will return. There is a scene between them in a classic New Jersey diner, where they seem to be the only patrons, where the lights blaze through the windows, almost like the diner is a spaceship floating above the earth. The music is romantic, 1950s doo-wop.
Main Cast of Ponyboi
Dylan O'Brien
Vinnie
Dylan O'Brien delivers a compelling and transformative performance as Vinnie in the surreal independent film "Ponyboi," showcasing his versatility as an actor beyond his well-known roles in action and teen drama genres. In this unique and visually stylized narrative, O'Brien embodies the complexities of Vinnie, a sex worker with a rich inner world, navigating the intersections of his Indigenous heritage and queer identity. His portrayal is both nuanced and empathetic, capturing the character's vulnerability and resilience with a quiet intensity that resonates on screen. O'Brien's ability to convey deep emotion through subtle gestures and expressive eyes allows audiences to connect with Vinnie's multifaceted experiences, including his struggles with self-acceptance and his yearning for love and understanding. His chemistry with co-star Riverdale's Kim Sharpies, who plays Ponyboi, is palpable, adding a layer of authenticity to their on-screen romance. Overall, O'Brien's performance is a testament to his talent and commitment to diverse storytelling, as he fearlessly takes on a role that challenges societal norms and celebrates the complexity of human connection.
Victoria Pedretti
Angel
Victoria Pedretti's portrayal of Angel in the groundbreaking film "Ponyboi" is a standout performance that showcases her versatility and depth as an actress. Pedretti brings a nuanced complexity to the character, imbuing Angel with a palpable sense of vulnerability and resilience. As a sex worker with dreams of escaping her harsh reality, Angel's interactions with the protagonist, Ponyboi, are fraught with both tension and tenderness. Pedretti's ability to convey Angel's internal struggle between her tough exterior and her yearning for connection and freedom is truly captivating. Her performance is a delicate balance of strength and fragility, capturing the essence of a character caught between the gritty life she knows and the hope for something better. With every scene, Pedretti delivers an emotionally resonant portrayal that lingers with the audience, underscoring the film's exploration of identity, love, and liberation.
River Gallo
Ponyboi
Crew of Ponyboi
Full backstage crew list →