Longlegs is a film that truly knows how to get under your skin. Directed by Osgood Perkins, this horror-thriller stars Nicolas Cage as a satanic serial killer, and Maika Monroe as the FBI agent on his trail. The movie is a masterclass in creating an unsettling atmosphere, with its oppressive sound design and heavily stylized performances.
The film opens with a chilling flashback, shot to look like an old home movie, setting the tone for the nightmare that follows. We then jump to the '90s, where new FBI agent Lee Harker, played by Monroe, captures the killer using what seems to be a psychic hunch. This intriguing setup promises a deep dive into the supernatural, but unfortunately, the film doesn't fully explore this aspect of her character.
Nicolas Cage is in top form, delivering one of his most bizarre performances to date. His portrayal of the killer is both terrifying and oddly mesmerizing, making it hard to look away even during the film's most gruesome moments. The movie's production design also deserves a mention, as it creates a dream-like, almost timeless quality that adds to the overall sense of unease.
However, Longlegs isn't without its flaws. The film sometimes struggles to maintain its fever dream tone, especially during a late exposition dump that feels out of place. Despite this, the movie manages to keep you on edge, thanks to its relentless pacing and the palpable sense of dread that permeates every scene.
In conclusion, Longlegs is a bold and unsettling film that will leave you thinking about it long after the credits roll. It's not perfect, but its unique blend of horror and psychological thriller elements makes it a must-watch for fans of the genre. Just be prepared for a wild ride that doesn't always make sense but is undeniably captivating.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
Watch the trailer here:
Have you seen it yet? What did you think of Nicolas Cage's performance?
Image credits:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Longlegs
https://tedmetrakas.substack.com/p/longlegs
https://slate.com/culture/2024/07/longlegs-movie-nicolas-cage-maika-monroe-2024.html
