The enigmatic world of serial killers and the haunting melodies by artist Z Berg, that accompany their stories take center stage in the new film Strange Darling. In an exclusive interview with Nick Williams from Temple of Geek, Z Berg, the mastermind behind the film’s captivating original soundtrack, delves into her creative process, inspirations, and the profound connection she feels to the film’s dark narrative.

In the new film Strange Darling, a twisted one-night stand spirals into a serial killer’s vicious murder spree, and nothing is as it seems. Strange Darling will be released in theaters on Friday, August 23, 2024.

Z Berg on her Personal Resonance to Strange Darling

Berg’s journey into the chilling soundscape of Strange Darling began with a personal encounter that left an indelible mark on her psyche. Having narrowly escaped the clutches of a serial killer herself, Berg carries a unique understanding of the “unending dread” that permeates the film’s atmosphere. This intimate connection to the subject matter allowed her to tap into a deep well of emotions. Translating her experiences into music that resonates with the film’s unsettling themes.

I was almost murdered by a serial killer once. So I’ve got experience, and I think I live in this world of, you know, unending dread. So it was easy for me to start. I was like the second or third person to read the script. I read it before we had people to make it. And I just read it and I loved it, and I read it and I thought, I can’t believe I didn’t write this like it speaks to my soul in a way I cannot even describe. And I wrote all these songs while they were shooting. I didn’t see a frame. It was just sort of based on the script and my conversations with JT and we just kind of, understood each other somehow. And, you know, JT and I are veritable strangers, like we know each other now, but we met once before we started working on this. And somehow there’s something with those two brains that, see the same fucked up shit. – Z Berg

Candy-Coated Dread

The soundtrack’s allure lies in its ability to juxtapose beauty and horror, a concept Berg describes as “candy-coated dread.” Drawing inspiration from iconic scores like the “Rosemary’s Baby” theme, Berg weaves ethereal melodies and delicate harmonies that belie the sinister undercurrents lurking beneath the surface. This juxtaposition creates a sense of unease, heightening the film’s suspense and drawing viewers into its unsettling world.

I think I mean, honestly, it was very easy for me because I think generally the way I write music and sort of my favorite world of music is what sort of we’ve been calling candy-coated dread. I feel like there’s something so much scarier about something when it’s also sort of very beautiful and ethereal and demure that that, you know, the Rosemary’s Baby theme was like a big sort of influence for this of like, why is it so creepy? Because it’s so lovely. And I think that you know, it was a very easy world for me to sort of try and exist in because, yeah, it’s, it speaks to my soul. -Z Berg

Berg’s creative process was fueled by a deep connection to the film’s script and a shared understanding with director JT. Despite being relative strangers, Berg and JT found common ground in their appreciation for the macabre and their ability to “see the same fucked up shit.” This unspoken connection allowed Berg to craft a score that seamlessly complements the film’s visual and narrative elements, enhancing its emotional impact.

A Lifelong Dream Realized

Firstly, for Berg, the opportunity to compose the soundtrack for “Strange Darling” represents the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. Moreover, witnessing her music seamlessly integrated into the film’s fabric evoked a sense of gratitude and disbelief. The experience solidified her passion for storytelling through music and her desire to create art that challenges and engages audiences.

It’s like the great privilege of my way. Like, this is it’s truly like a lifelong dream. And the fact that not only did I get to do this, but I love this movie so much. I’m like, so grateful to be a part of it and to have been able to write all these songs for it. It’s yeah, it is. I’m hoping I don’t wake up. – Z Berg

Both the film and its accompanying soundtrack invite viewers and listeners to actively participate in the storytelling process. Berg praises the film’s refusal to treat its audience like “idiots.” Opting instead to encourage them to draw their own conclusions and grapple with the complex emotions it evokes. This approach fosters a deeper connection between the art and its audience. Creating a shared experience that lingers long after the final credits roll.

I think I really love that this movie doesn’t treat you like an idiot. I think we make so many movies these days. They are both, you know, sort of obsessed with gritty neo-realism and exposition and morality. And this is a movie that begs you to participate and to come to your own conclusions and an inappropriate way to examine the way it makes you feel and why you’re reacting that way. And I think that it’s a wonderful thing because people are not idiots and they should not be treated like idiots by art. And I think, I think it’s the greatest feeling in the world to to participate in a piece of art this way. And I think, you know, both the movie and the album ask a lot of you as a viewer and a listener. And, and I think, you know, that that brings us together. – Z Berg

Z Berg’s haunting melodies for Strange Darling offer a chilling glimpse into the darkest corners of the human psyche. Her music, born from personal experience and a deep connection to the film’s narrative. It serves as a powerful reminder that even the most beautiful things can harbor darkness. As viewers and listeners immerse themselves in the film’s unsettling world. In addition, Berg’s music will undoubtedly leave an enduring impression. Inviting audiences to confront their own fears and grapple with the complexities of the human condition. Don’t miss out on this unique film experience, Strange Darling hits theaters on Friday, August 23, 2024.