I spent an entire day at the cinema, indulging in a back-to-back-to-back horror movie marathon. Here’s a quick rundown of my experience at Curzon Aldgate with “Longlegs,” “Maxxxine,” and “A Quiet Place: Day One.”
Longlegs
“Longlegs” plunges us into the twisted mind of a serial killer played by Nicolas Cage with an unnerving fondness for his… well, long legs. This thriller keeps you on the edge of your seat as the detective races against time to catch this elusive predator.
From the very first scene, “Longlegs” had me hooked. The suspense is perfectly crafted, with each twist more shocking than the last. The lead detective, portrayed brilliantly by Maika Monroe, brings a mix of vulnerability and tenacity to the role, making you root for her even as the dread builds.
What makes “Longlegs” a standout is its slow burn and original plotline. The story unfolds gradually, pulling you deeper into the psychological abyss. The use of flashbacks provides crucial insights into the killer’s past. This adds layers to his motivations and makes the narrative more compelling. Not to mention, the eerie cinematography creates an almost suffocating atmosphere. If you’re a fan of psychological thrillers with a touch of the macabre, this one’s for you.
MaXXXine
“MaXXXine” continues the American slasher series from “X,” following Maxine Minx as she pursues her dream of becoming a famous actress in 1980s Los Angeles. However, her journey is anything but glamorous, filled with dark twists and turns.
“I will not accept a life I do not deserve.”
Maxine Minx, MaXXXine, 2024
Ti West scores a hat trick with “MaXXXine” a vibrant, gritty homage to the 80s, blending horror with a biting commentary on fame and the entertainment industry. The aesthetic is spot-on, with neon lights, synth-heavy music, and fashion that screams the 80s. Maxine’s character is compelling, showing both her fierce ambition and the toll it takes on her. This film masterfully balances gore and psychological horror, keeping you engaged from start to finish. Goth’s performances in both roles highlight the themes of ambition, desire, and the dark side of the American dream, making the narrative more cohesive and impactful.
Mia Goth’s dual role as both Pearl in “Pearl” and Maxine in “X” and “MaXXXine” is a stroke of genius. By having the same actress portray both characters, Ti West draws a haunting parallel between the two women. Pearl’s unfulfilled dreams and descent into madness are contrasted sharply with Maxine’s desperate climb toward stardom. This casting choice adds a layer of psychological horror, suggesting that Maxine could very well follow in Pearl’s tragic footsteps.
A Quiet Place: Day One
“A Quiet Place: Day One” takes us back to the very beginning. It, shows the chaos and terror that ensued when the sound-sensitive Death Angels first arrived. This prequel gives us a new perspective on the apocalypse that reshaped the world.
If you’ve loved the tension and innovation of “A Quiet Place” so far, this prequel delivers on all fronts. he sound design, as expected, is phenomenal, using silence and sudden noise to create jump scares that are truly effective (on others, not me).
One of the standout aspects of “A Quiet Place: Day One” is how it takes a seemingly simple motive—getting pizza—and turns it into a complex, high-stakes journey. Sammy’s desire for something as ordinary as pizza becomes monumental when faced with the onset of an alien invasion, personal tragedy with a cancer diagnosis, and the care of her cat in the ensuing chaos. This blend of the mundane with the extraordinary creates a compelling narrative that keeps you invested in the character’s survival and quest.
Three horror movies in one day might seem like a lot, but each of these films brought something unique to the table. From the slow burn and original plotline of “Longlegs,” the retro slasher of “Maxxxine,” to the intense survival story in “A Quiet Place: Day One,” it was a day well spent for any horror aficionado. If you’re looking for a good scare, I highly recommend giving these movies a watch!
Have you seen any of these films? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!
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