Directed by: Justin Kelly
Written by: Jack Donnelly
Genre: Erotic Thriller / Psychological Drama
Runtime: Approx. 96 minutes
Country of Origin: United States
Language: English
Former Title: The Bird and the Bee
Release Date: July 4, 2025
Quick Description
Pretty Thing is not your typical Hollywood romance or casual weekend movie — it’s a daring, provocative thriller that dives into obsession, secrecy, and the cost of desire. Directed by Justin Kelly, the film stars Alicia Silverstone in one of her most mature and intense roles to date. The story centres around Sophie, a successful woman whose entanglement with a younger lover turns dangerous when passion crosses the line into obsession.
Originally titled The Bird and the Bee, the film wrapped production during the 2023 actors’ strike and was granted a special interim agreement to keep cameras rolling, strong sign of how important the story was to its makers. For Nigerian fans of thrillers with real bite and emotional heat, Pretty Thing delivers high tension, steamy suspense, and a psychological punch.
Cast
Alicia Silverstone as Sophie – Best known for Clueless, Alicia returns to screen with a strong, complex character battling internal fears and external threats.
Karl Glusman as Elliot – He plays the younger man whose obsession spirals into something sinister. Glusman has previously starred in bold films like Love (2015).
Tammy Blanchard as Amanda – A multi-award-winning actress known for intense roles.
Catherine Curtin as Peggy – Familiar from Orange Is the New Black and Stranger Things, she adds emotional depth to the ensemble.
Storyline
Set in a sleek urban backdrop, Pretty Thing follows Sophie, a confident executive who begins an affair with Elliot, a charming but unpredictable younger man. What starts as playful romance quickly turns obsessive, as Elliot refuses to let go, invading her personal and professional life. The film slowly builds tension as Sophie fights to reclaim control, making this a gripping tale of emotional warfare and erotic manipulation.
Our Opinion, Review (No Spoilers)
Pretty Thing is a bold return for Alicia Silverstone and a standout entry into the erotic thriller genre. It blends mature storytelling with sharp tension, giving audiences an experience that is as thought-provoking as it is thrilling. If you’re looking for a film that goes beyond surface-level drama and dives deep into the human mind, this one deserves a spot on your watchlist.
Rating? 3.7/5 3.7 out of 5.0 stars
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