Longlegs (2024)

Rating: 4.5/5

Plot Summary

"Longlegs", directed by Osgood Perkins, weaves a chilling narrative featuring Nicolas Cage as an eerie serial killer known as Longlegs and Maika Monroe as FBI Agent Lee Harker. Combining psychological horror with supernatural elements, this film offers an unsettling experience that stands out in the horror genre. The marketing campaign for "Longlegs" has been a true treat for horror fans, bringing back the kind of anticipation and excitement that we've been asking for, for a long time. The trailers and promotional materials perfectly captured the film's unsettling atmosphere and unique blend of horror genres, building immense hype and curiosity. What sets "Longlegs" apart is its intricate storytelling and incredible blend of horror elements. From the hauntingly atmospheric visuals to the compelling performances by Cage and Monroe, the film delves deep into the psyche of its characters. For me, the film's originality, intense suspense, and eerie, unforgettable scenes truly stand out. If you love your horror with a twist of psychological depth and a dash of supernatural creepiness, this is your jam.

Chopping Block - Hits & Misses

Hits

• Okay, I admit it: I'm not typically a Nicolas Cage fan. But his portrayal of Longlegs in this film is both unsettling and captivating, bringing a haunting presence to the screen. I'm VERY glad I spent the money to go see this in theaters. No regrets! I was utterly terrified!

• The use of light and shadow enhances every scare, making the film visually compelling. The vintage aesthetics were top-notch and added an extra layer of eerie beauty to the whole experience.

• You CAN have the best of both worlds! The combination of psychological horror and supernatural elements creates a deeply engaging and unpredictable narrative. Usually, when you have a blend like this, they try to go too big and too hard on the ending. I personally LOVED that they didn't overdo it in the end. I love a movie that leaves me with questions (and not confusion).

Misses

• At times, the film’s pacing can feel uneven, with some scenes dragging on longer than necessary. This wasn't an issue for me, but if you're someone who prefers a really fast-paced, full-of-jump-scares type of movie, this isn't going to be that kind of experience.

• The intertwining of crime procedural and supernatural elements may confuse some viewers. I did find some parts a BIT hard to follow.

• While the leads shine, some secondary characters lack depth and development. This didn't impact the story for me, but if you're looking for super deep character development you won't find that here.

Full Review

• Scare Factor — Points: 1 "Longlegs" had me on edge with its blend of psychological tension and supernatural horror. The unsettling atmosphere and unexpected twists kept me in suspense the entire time. The "creep" factor is definitely cranked up to 100! If you're into movies that make you feel uneasy, this one is a must-watch. I found myself saying "ewww" more than once – but in the best way possible.

• Storyline and Plot — Points: .5 The plot of "Longlegs" follows FBI Agent Harker as she uncovers the dark and twisted world of Longlegs. While it's a familiar procedural structure, they managed to bring in enough unique elements to make it feel fresh. There were moments when it was a bit hard to follow, but overall, it was a solid storyline!

• Atmosphere and Setting — Points: 1 Perkins' signature style shines through in "Longlegs," with meticulous attention to detail in every frame. The geometric and structured visuals, paired with the analog horror aesthetics in the flashbacks, really enhance the film's eerie atmosphere. Plus, the marketing team did an incredible job at setting the mood even before you step into the theater.

• Special Effects and Makeup — Points: 1 The special effects and makeup in "Longlegs" are top-notch, especially when it comes to creating Longlegs' warped face. The blend of practical effects and subtle CGI is seamless, enhancing the horror without going over the top. It strikes the perfect balance, making the scares feel more real and unsettling.

• Acting and Performances — Points: 1 Nicolas Cage delivers an iconic performance in "Longlegs," bringing depth and menace to the character. Maika Monroe's portrayal of Agent Harker really grounds the film, providing a compelling and relatable character that draws you in. Their performances together create a dynamic that kept me hooked from start to finish.

Final Verdict

So, there you have it: a film where Nicolas Cage actually gives me chills, and not because of questionable career choices! If you're a fan of psychological horror films like "Se7en", "Zodiac", or "The Silence of the Lambs," or if you enjoy supernatural thrillers, this one's for you. And remember, if you hear any strange noises after watching, it’s probably just Longlegs coming to sing you Happy Birthday. Sweet dreams!

Rating: 4.5/5

What did you think of "Longlegs"?

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