In the realm of horror, “Longlegs” isn’t your typical jump-scare fest. At first glance, Osgood Perkins’ latest offering might not seem all that terrifying. But trust me, this film has a way of burrowing into your subconscious and leaving you with nightmares that linger long after the credits roll.
Longlegs
Nicolas Cage’s Creepiest Creation Yet
Nicolas Cage, no stranger to eccentric roles, delivers a truly unsettling performance as Longlegs, the unsettling rural dollmaker. With his stringy white hair, ghoulish makeup, and unsettlingly high-pitched voice, Cage embodies pure nightmare fuel. He moves with a twisted grace, his gestures exaggerated and his presence unsettling. Longlegs is a character that will haunt your dreams, a testament to Cage’s ability to tap into the darkest corners of human psyche.
A Twisted Tale of Childhood Trauma
The film centers on a series of bizarre murders targeting young girls born on the 14th of the month. The victims’ families inexplicably turn on each other, adding a chilling layer of psychological horror to the narrative. The film’s focus on childhood trauma and the fear of parental betrayal strikes a deep chord, tapping into our most primal anxieties. We are led to question the nature of evil and the lengths to which someone might go to protect a dark secret.
A Masterclass in Slow-Burn Terror
Perkins, known for his work on “The Blackcoat’s Daughter,” proves himself a master of suspense. The film is a slow burn, building tension with each scene. Ominous cinematography, disorienting cuts, and a haunting score all contribute to a sense of dread that permeates the entire film. Perkins expertly blends elements of classic horror with modern sensibilities, creating a unique and unsettling experience. Long lingering shots on seemingly innocuous objects take on a sinister air, and the vast emptiness of rural landscapes is used to create a feeling of isolation and vulnerability.
A Gory Feast for the Senses
While “Longlegs” may not be the most graphic horror film out there, it doesn’t shy away from violence. The film’s brutal murders are depicted with a shocking realism that will leave you wincing in your seat. But the gore never feels gratuitous; it serves to enhance the film’s overall sense of dread and despair. The violence is sudden and brutal, a stark contrast to the film’s slow-burn pacing. It’s a disturbing reminder of the darkness that can lurk beneath the surface of seemingly ordinary lives.
A Haunting Exploration of the Supernatural
The film’s supernatural elements add another layer of intrigue to the narrative. The exact nature of Longlegs’ power is never fully explained, but the suggestion of demonic forces at work is enough to send shivers down your spine. Perkins leaves much to the imagination, which allows viewers to come to their own conclusions about the film’s events. This ambiguity adds to the film’s unsettling atmosphere and ensures that it will stay with you long after the credits roll.
A Few Plot Holes, But Still a Haunting Experience
While the film is a masterclass in atmosphere and performance, the plot does suffer from some contrivances. The connection between the FBI rookie Lee Harker (played by a captivating Maika Monroe) and Longlegs feels a bit forced, and the film’s supernatural elements are never fully explained. However, these minor flaws don’t detract from the overall impact of the film. “Longlegs” is a haunting and disturbing experience that will stay with you long after the credits roll. It’s a film that will leave you thinking about the darkness that can lurk beneath the surface of seemingly ordinary people and places.
Final Verdict
“Longlegs” is a must-see for horror fans who crave something more than just cheap jump scares. It’s a psychological thriller that will get under your skin and stay there. With a career-best performance from Nicolas Cage and a masterful execution by Osgood Perkins, “Longlegs” is a haunting reminder that the scariest monsters are often the ones we create ourselves.
