Almost a year has passed since the internet erupted with theories and discussions about whether Harry Styles actually spat on Chris Pine during the star-studded premiere of *Don’t Worry Darling* at the Venice Film Festival. The rumors, whether founded or not, only added to the buzz surrounding the movie, making it one of the most talked-about releases of 2022. Since then, *Don’t Worry Darling* has navigated its way through a tempest of controversy to become not only a box-office success but also a hit on Netflix. Currently featured in the platform’s top 10, the film is again stirring curiosity and conversation among viewers, especially those who may have missed it in theaters or who are new to its compelling story.
If you’re on the fence about giving *Don’t Worry Darling* a try, here are three solid reasons why it’s worth adding to your watchlist.
### 1. A Stylish and Original Story
In a cinematic landscape increasingly dominated by reboots, sequels, and adaptations, *Don’t Worry Darling* stands out for its originality and vision. Directed by Olivia Wilde, the film takes place in a seemingly idyllic 1950s desert community called Victory. Here, men commute to work in mysterious roles while women remain at home, expected to maintain their households and perform traditional domestic duties. The community is painted as a sunlit, glossy paradise—think palm trees, pastel-colored homes, and vintage cars. But when Alice Chambers, a devoted wife played by Florence Pugh, begins to sense that something isn’t quite right, the cracks in this idealistic world slowly but surely start to show.
Alice’s journey from compliant housewife to inquisitive rebel is as captivating as it is unsettling, and the film’s storytelling technique keeps audiences questioning what’s real and what’s staged. The film is undeniably a visual delight, with meticulously crafted sets and cinematography that echoes the tension simmering beneath the glossy surface. The aesthetic of *Don’t Worry Darling* is as integral to the experience as the plot itself, immersing viewers in a world that feels tangible yet eerily perfect—perhaps too perfect.
It’s a treat to see a new movie that doesn’t rely on established franchises, well-known intellectual properties, or comic book adaptations. Instead, *Don’t Worry Darling* is an ambitious attempt to tell a story that stands on its own and aims to raise questions about gender roles, control, and societal expectations. The movie is a fresh breath for those looking to escape the cookie-cutter mold of contemporary blockbusters.
### 2. A Stellar Ensemble Cast
Florence Pugh shines in the lead role, delivering yet another brilliant performance that reminds audiences why she’s one of Hollywood’s most exciting young talents. Her portrayal of Alice is multifaceted, navigating the full spectrum of human emotions—from blissful domesticity to bone-chilling horror—as she begins to unravel the secrets behind the idyllic Victory Project. Pugh’s raw and intense performance is perhaps the film’s most magnetic quality, showcasing her range and establishing her as an actress unafraid of challenging roles.
Alongside Pugh, *Don’t Worry Darling* features an impressive supporting cast that includes Harry Styles, Chris Pine, Gemma Chan, and Nick Kroll. Chris Pine is particularly memorable as the film’s charismatic yet sinister antagonist, Frank. His character is a manipulative leader who embodies the underlying toxicity of the seemingly utopian community. Pine brings a cold charisma to Frank, providing a chilling counterpoint to Pugh’s unraveling Alice.
Harry Styles, cast as Pugh’s on-screen husband Jack, also delivers a performance that goes beyond his pop-star persona, bringing both charm and mystery to his role. Styles’ chemistry with Pugh is palpable, and as Jack, he balances between being an idealistic, loving husband and a man with secrets of his own. While Styles’ acting has received mixed reviews, his portrayal complements the ensemble well and adds to the overall intrigue of the story.
This ensemble cast elevates *Don’t Worry Darling*, each actor delivering a performance that feels unique to their character while adding layers to the movie’s themes. Together, they bring Wilde’s vision to life, making it a memorable watch for fans of both drama and suspense.
### 3. A Film Steeped in Behind-the-Scenes Drama
Beyond its narrative and aesthetic appeal, *Don’t Worry Darling* has also become a hotbed for celebrity gossip, adding an extra layer of fascination for fans and followers of Hollywood drama. Rumors swirled around the film’s production, suggesting alleged on-set tensions that may have influenced the final product. One of the most persistent rumors involved director Olivia Wilde’s rumored relationship with Harry Styles, which reportedly led to tension with lead actress Florence Pugh. According to various reports, Pugh was less than pleased with Wilde’s alleged favoritism toward Styles, which supposedly resulted in behind-the-scenes friction.
Further drama surfaced when whispers began to circulate that Pugh had taken over directorial duties for parts of the film due to Wilde’s alleged distractions. While none of these reports have been confirmed by the principal cast, the intrigue surrounding these stories captivated the public, leading many to wonder how much of the rumored tension seeped into the characters’ complex relationships on-screen.
One of the film’s most notorious moments occurred at the Venice Film Festival, where a viral video seemingly showed Styles spitting on Chris Pine—a moment that became known as “Spitgate.” While Pine and Styles have both denied that anything happened, the incident became an internet sensation and only added to the mystique surrounding the movie.
Whether or not the drama affected the final product, the backstage gossip certainly contributed to *Don’t Worry Darling*’s popularity. In an era where audiences are increasingly fascinated by the inner workings of Hollywood, the film’s off-screen story has become nearly as compelling as the one on-screen. The rumors and speculation, combined with the film’s complex narrative, have made *Don’t Worry Darling* a must-watch for anyone interested in both cinema and celebrity culture.
Ultimately, *Don’t Worry Darling* is a film that stands out both for its gripping story and the whirlwind of gossip that surrounded its creation. From its stylized, original setting to its outstanding cast and the Hollywood buzz surrounding it, the movie offers plenty of reasons for audiences to dive into its eerie, carefully constructed world. Whether you’re in it for the thrills, the performances, or the behind-the-scenes drama, *Don’t Worry Darling* promises a viewing experience that is as provocative as it is entertaining.