Freaky Tales Set to Bring 1987 Oakland to Life in Theaters This Week

The anthology film blends real-life events, surreal elements, and a love letter to Oakland's culture, releasing on April 4, 2025.

Directed by Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck, Freaky Tales weaves four interconnected stories exploring resistance, identity, and underdog triumphs in 1987 Oakland.
Pedro Pascal leads the cast as a retiring debt collector, alongside Ben Mendelsohn, Jay Ellis, and a cameo by the real-life Sleepy Floyd.
The film incorporates real-life events like the 924 Gilman punk vs. neo-Nazi brawl, alongside surreal touches like a mysterious green glow in Oakland.
Authenticity was prioritized in production, with filming in Oakland and recreations of iconic landmarks like the Grand Lake Theatre and 924 Gilman.
Critical reviews highlight its nostalgic aesthetic, dynamic storytelling, and cultural resonance, celebrating Oakland as a central character.