Freaky Tales
What’s it rated? R
When? 2025
Where’s it showing? HBO Max
Co-written and directed by Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck (Captain Marvel), Freaky Tales tells four interconnected stories all set in real locations and connected to historical events in 1987 Oakland.
“Strength in Numbers: The Gilman Strikes Back” depicts young punk rock fans at an Operation Ivy show at 924 Gilman St. being tormented by but eventually fighting back against neo-Nazis.
“Don’t Fight the Feeling” follows two female rappers—Entice (Normani) and Barbie (Dominique Thorne)—challenged to a rap battle with Too $hort who are demoralized by misogyny but find the strength to overcome.
“Born to Mack” stars Pedro Pascal as Clint, a criminal trying to escape his life of crime whose pregnant wife is murdered by an old enemy. Thinking his family, including his unborn child, is dead, he defies his old criminal gang.
“The Legend of Sleepy Floyd” finds Golden State Warriors star Eric Augustus “Sleepy” Floyd (Jay Ellis) playing a record-setting game while his family is attacked by Nazi gang leader Travis (Angus Cloud).
It’s funny, cartoonishly violent, and has an amazing period soundtrack. It also perfectly captures its time and place. After premiering at Sundance Film Festival, it’s now on HBO Max. (107 min.)
—Glen Starkey
This article appears in Sep 11 – Sep 18, 2025.