Actresses Bella Thorne and Chloe Cherry have opened up about their new thriller, *Find Your Friends*, which delves into complex themes surrounding consent and the challenges of female friendships. Directed by Izabel Pakzad, the film presents a grim narrative that explores the consequences of escapism and violence against women, unfolding against the stark backdrop of California’s Joshua Tree National Park.
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In an exclusive interview, the two stars spoke candidly about the thought-provoking issues the film addresses, especially around the topic of consent. Thorne, 28, pointed out a troubling trend, stating, “I felt like we were starting to get somewhere with consent, and it feels like we’re getting rifted right back.” She hopes the film provides insight for younger audiences, notably young men, to better understand these critical issues.
*Find Your Friends* sees Thorne and Cherry portray characters who embark on a seemingly innocent girls’ trip that rapidly escalates into a struggle for survival. Joined by Helena Howard, Sophia Taylor Ali, and Zión Moreno, their characters’ bonding experience soon reveals the darker undercurrents of their relationships and culminates in a shocking climax involving violence and retribution.
Cherry emphasised the film’s intention to demonstrate the gravity of experiences surrounding sexual assault. She explained that it aims to elicit empathy, saying, “It shows the actual anger that the victims of rape and sexual assault feel — and rightfully so. They should feel those feelings.” This perspective is indeed central to the storyline, as it challenges viewers to confront the harsh realities faced by those who have suffered from such traumas.
The actors shared their experiences filming in the desert, describing the unexpectedly cold weather during production. While many might picture the desert as sweltering, Cherry found the nights so chilling that she often fled back to Los Angeles during breaks. “I was too scared to stay there alone,” she admitted, highlighting the eerie isolation of their surroundings, which fit perfectly within the horror genre.
Revisiting the film’s heavier themes, Thorne reflected on the depiction of consent, arguing that it is crucial for a younger demographic to understand the nuances involved. “A kiss isn’t ‘yes,’ nor is a drink or a short skirt,” she reiterated, underlining the film’s role in addressing issues of toxic masculinity prevalent in certain online circles.
As the actresses tackled various intense scenes, they also managed to inject humour into their time on set. Both recounted shooting a particularly gruesome sequence involving a physically distressing act that required a prosthetic. “It was probably one of the most fun days on set,” Thorne recalled, explaining the meticulous planning that went into capturing that pivotal moment.
Their chemistry, both on and off-screen, contributed to a positive atmosphere during filming. Cherry and Thorne engaged in improvisation, leading to spontaneous and often amusing exchanges that further developed their characters. Cherry revealed, “A lot of the movie was improv,” showcasing the creativity and flexibility of the actors in bringing their roles to life.
Throughout their promotional discussions, both Thorne and Cherry reflected on the implications of their characters’ friendships. Cherry noted that the dynamics of youthful camaraderie often shift as individuals grow, a sentiment resonant with many young adults navigating friendships in their own lives.
In closing, *Find Your Friends* offers an unsettling yet necessary commentary on pressing social issues, all while delivering a chillingly entertaining narrative. As it becomes available for streaming on Shudder, audiences are invited to engage with the layered themes of consent, female solidarity, and the dark complexities of human relationships.
For those affected by the topics presented in the film, resources are available. The National Sexual Assault Hotline can be reached at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673), and those struggling with substance abuse can contact the SAMHSA helpline at 1-800-662-HELP.