'Longlegs' Review: Nicolas Cage is intensity personified in 'scariest movie of the decade'
Contains spoilers for 'Longlegs'
OREGON CITY, OREGON: 'Longlegs' released in theaters on July 12, 2024. The scary psychological thriller features a magnificent Nicolas Cage who transforms into a satanic serial killer and Maika Monroe who plays a psychic FBI Agent named Lee Harker. The film is a thrilling exploration of serial killings that beautifully intertwines with Lee's personal life and past.
Directed by OZ Perkins, 'Longlegs' follows Lee who is investigating a serial killer and as we move deeper into the narrative, we discover that this serial killer named Longlegs is using supernatural evil powers to control people's minds. He does it through a doll that makes families commit mass suicides. He leaves a cryptic calling card that is signed Longlegs.
Perkins blurs the lines between a psychological thriller and a horror film in 'Longlegs' and creates a world where even the most supernatural tropes begin to seem realistic. Here is a detailed review of the film.
Character study forms the backbone of 'Longlegs'
On the face of it, the film appears to be a psychological thriller that has a serial killer investigation driving it, but as we get deeper into the film, we realize that the narrative is centered around Lee Harker's life and the impact this serial killer has had on her and her family over the years.
While this is a common theme, and films like 'Seven' and 'Zodiac' and shows like 'True Detective' have explored them too, this narrative is different because the serial killer's identity and Lee's past are directly co-related.
Further, the unabashed addition of the supernatural element separates it from other psychological thrillers. Usually, when you see such a film, the killer is often projected as being delusional, however in 'Longlegs', you see his satanic beliefs play out, and that escalates the odds and the dangers surrounding this serial killer significantly.
The supernatural world is established early when you see Lee use her psychic intuitions at her job. Once this world is established, you never question the rest of the happenings in the film and flow with the narrative seamlessly.
OZ Perkins is in top form in 'Longlegs'
OZ Perkins is at the peak of his prowess in this film and he stays true to the narrative and the world of this film right from the writing to the editing.
The decision to keep the camera movements minimal creates a beautiful illusion around the viewer who gets into the world. The choice of color palettes adds a lot to the storytelling and creates a visual spell around the viewer subconsciously.
The climax of the movie is brilliantly executed with overlapping sequences and minimalistic yet brilliant action choreography. What works most for this film is the fact that the camera never leaves Lee Harker unless absolutely necessary. It continues to be an exploration of her mind visually and you almost see the world from her point of view.
Nicolas Cage and Maika Monroe are exceptional in their roles in 'Longlegs'
Nicolas Cage continues to show how versatile he is as an actor and delivers yet another brilliant performance. He is the antagonist in the film but his actions are convincing and that makes him scarier.
He is so convinced about his philosophy that the protagonist finds it impossible to get ahead in the film. He brings a spooky charm to the character in a way that only he can.
Maika Monroe carries the film on her able shoulders and is exceptionally good in the scenes with her mother. She is a confident but vulnerable woman and she plays both parts ably. She makes this role her own and plays a difficult part with ease. Alicia Witt and Blair Underwood are excellent in their parts as Ruth and Agent Carter respectively.
'Longlegs' trailer
'Longlegs' released in theaters on July 12, 2024
