Directed by Malcom D. Lee and penned by Alan B. McElroy, Peacock’s new horror thriller “Strung” is a campy film that fully embraces the absurd. The story centers on a naive violinist whose job as a private music tutor for a wealthy family spirals into a path of violence, greed, and deception. While the plot is predictably comedic, Chloe Bailey’s sincere performance and Lynn Whitfield’s standout role make the film enjoyable, even as its storyline unravels.
Set in present-day Los Angeles, “Strung” follows Layla (Bailey), who is struggling after a personal loss. Despite her exceptional talent, she hasn’t yet achieved success on the main stage. After two unsuccessful auditions with the Philharmonic, Layla is living on her friend Jasmine’s (Coco Jones) sofa and working as a guest music teacher for children. Her luck changes when she encounters the enigmatic Audra (played by Lynn Whitfield), who seeks a live-in music tutor for her gifted but unusual granddaughter Zuri (Romy Woods).
Initially reluctant to accept the position, Layla is persuaded by Audra, who explains that she and her pregnant daughter, Imani (Anna Diop), need someone to ensure Zuri receives proper attention when the new baby arrives. Drawn by the high salary, live-in arrangements, and her fondness for children, Layla overlooks Jasmine’s warnings and heads to the family’s estate to meet Zuri. From the outset, the situation feels off, with the house staff acting like exaggerated characters reminiscent of “Get Out,” and Imani displaying immediate hostility. The numerous house rules, designed to manage Zuri’s severe allergies, feel restrictive and undermine Layla’s independence. Additionally, Layla is unsettled when Zuri greets her wearing an oversized Zulu tribal mask she refuses to remove.
Despite her discomfort, Layla strives to connect with Zuri. When Imani’s husband, Marcus (Lucien Laviscount), a renowned music manager, promises to recommend her to the Philharmonic, Layla becomes more comfortable with the family, whose dark secrets rival their wealth. However, she soon realizes the situation is far from what she anticipated.
“Strung” leaves several questions unanswered. For instance, the audience learns that Layla’s younger sister died from an asthma attack, but there is no information about the rest of her family, including her parents. Additionally, although Layla advises Zuri to trust her instincts, she does the opposite upon arriving at the family’s mansion.
The film’s score, by Ali Shaheed Muhammad and Adrian Younge, enhances its ominous atmosphere as Layla’s mental state deteriorates. Despite being intelligent and thoughtful, Layla consistently makes poor choices, rendering much of the intended suspense comedic. Screenwriter McElroy appears to critique the lack of agency experienced by those living and working with employers, but several scenes, particularly between Imani and Layla and during the more action-heavy moments, are so detached from reality that even the most credulous viewers might find them hard to believe.
Produced by Jason Blum and Tyler Perry, “Strung” boasts a strong cast and some enticing scenes. However, after a pivotal moment midway through, the plot disintegrates, leading to a bizarre and unrealistic climax, ending as expected. As the final note is played, viewers may find that despite its glamour, “Strung” lacks the depth to be a compelling psychological thriller.
“Strung” is now streaming on Peacock.
