“Longlegs” (2024)

Horror

Running time: 101 minutes

Written and directed by: Osgood Perkins

Featuring: Maika Monroe, Blair Underwood, Alicia Witt and Nicolas Cage

Longlegs: “Oh! There she is! The almost-birthday girl!”

“Longlegs,” directed by Osgood Perkins, is a chilling horror-thriller that delves into the depths of fear, suspense, and the human psyche. Known for his work on “The Blackcoat’s Daughter” and “I Am the Pretty Thing That Lives in the House,” Perkins brings his unique storytelling and atmospheric style to this new film. Starring Nicolas Cage in a lead role, “Longlegs” promises a gripping and eerie experience. Let’s explore this film in detail.

The story revolves around an enigmatic and sinister figure known as Longlegs, played by Nicolas Cage. Set in a small, desolate town, the film follows a series of bizarre and gruesome murders that baffle the local authorities. FBI agent Charles Fallon (Maika Monroe) is assigned to the case, bringing her expertise and determination to uncover the truth behind the murders.

As Fallon delves deeper into the investigation, she uncovers a web of dark secrets and supernatural elements that tie the murders to the town’s past. Longlegs is not just a killer but a malevolent force that preys on the fears and vulnerabilities of its victims. The film expertly weaves together psychological horror and supernatural suspense, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.

Nicolas Cage delivers a standout performance as Longlegs, showcasing his ability to embody complex and menacing characters. His portrayal is both terrifying and mesmerizing, creating a palpable sense of dread whenever he appears on screen. Cage’s commitment to the role elevates the film, making Longlegs a memorable and haunting antagonist.

Maika Monroe shines as FBI agent Charles Fallon, bringing depth and nuance to her character. Fallon’s determination and vulnerability make her a relatable and compelling protagonist. Monroe’s chemistry with the supporting cast, including performances by actors such as Jeremy Davies and Kate Lyn Sheil, adds layers to the narrative and enhances the film’s emotional impact.

Osgood Perkins’s direction is masterful, creating an atmosphere that is both claustrophobic and expansive. He uses the desolate town setting to great effect, turning everyday locations into sites of horror and tension. Perkins’s meticulous attention to detail and his ability to build suspense through pacing and visual storytelling are evident throughout the film.

The cinematography by Julie Kirkwood is striking, with a muted color palette that enhances the film’s eerie and unsettling mood. The use of shadows, light, and framing adds to the sense of unease, making the audience feel as though they are constantly being watched. The visual style complements the film’s themes and reinforces the feeling of dread that permeates the story.

“Longlegs” explores themes of fear, trauma, and the human psyche. The character of Longlegs serves as a manifestation of the town’s collective fears and secrets, highlighting how past traumas can resurface and haunt individuals and communities. The film delves into the psychological aspects of horror, examining how fear can distort reality and lead to destructive behavior.

The supernatural elements of the story are symbolic of the unknown and the uncontrollable aspects of human existence. Longlegs’s ability to manipulate and torment his victims reflects the power of fear and the ways in which it can be weaponized. The film also touches on themes of redemption and the struggle to overcome personal demons, as seen through Fallon’s character arc.

One of the film’s strengths is its pacing, which allows for a slow build-up of tension and suspense. Perkins takes his time to develop the characters and the story, creating a sense of anticipation and unease. The deliberate pacing may not appeal to all viewers, but it effectively immerses the audience in the film’s dark and unsettling world.

The tension is further heightened by the film’s sound design and score. The eerie soundscape and haunting music add to the atmosphere, creating moments of intense fear and shock. The use of silence and subtle auditory cues enhances the psychological horror, making even the quietest scenes feel ominous.

“Longlegs” excels in its use of both visual and practical effects to create a truly terrifying experience. The makeup and special effects team did a remarkable job bringing Longlegs to life, making him a figure of genuine horror. His elongated limbs, grotesque appearance, and unsettling movements contribute to his otherworldly and frightening presence. The practical effects used in the murder scenes are disturbingly realistic, adding to the film’s visceral impact.

The visual effects seamlessly integrate with the practical ones, particularly in scenes where Longlegs’s supernatural abilities are showcased. The combination of these effects creates a cohesive and immersive experience, drawing the audience deeper into the film’s dark narrative.

The screenplay, co-written by Osgood Perkins and Rob Hayes, is tight and effective, with dialogue that feels natural and purposeful. The interactions between characters reveal much about their backgrounds and motivations, particularly the exchanges between Fallon and her colleagues, which highlight her determination and resilience.

The script also deftly balances exposition with suspense. While there are moments where characters explain aspects of the supernatural occurrences, these are interwoven with the action and character development, ensuring the story remains engaging and the tension unbroken.

“Longlegs” has received a mixed to positive response from critics. Many praise the film for its atmospheric direction, strong performances, and psychological depth. Nicolas Cage’s portrayal of Longlegs is often highlighted as a standout aspect, with reviewers commending his ability to bring complexity and menace to the character.

However, some critics note that the film’s slow pacing and emphasis on psychological horror over traditional scares might not appeal to all audiences. Despite this, “Longlegs” is generally recognized as a thoughtful and well-crafted addition to the horror genre.

Audience reactions to “Longlegs” have been similarly varied. Fans of slow-burn horror and psychological thrillers appreciate the film’s meticulous build-up of suspense and its exploration of fear and trauma. Nicolas Cage’s performance, in particular, has been a major draw, with many viewers finding his portrayal of Longlegs both chilling and captivating.

On the other hand, some horror enthusiasts who prefer more action-packed or gore-heavy films may find “Longlegs” lacking in immediate thrills. The film’s focus on atmosphere and character development over jump scares and rapid pacing means it may not satisfy all tastes in the horror community.

“Longlegs” is a compelling and chilling horror-thriller that showcases Osgood Perkins’s talent for creating atmospheric and psychologically rich narratives. The film’s strong performances, particularly by Nicolas Cage and Maika Monroe, combined with its haunting direction and cinematography, make it a standout in the genre.

While the film’s slow pacing and psychological focus may not be for everyone, “Longlegs” offers a thought-provoking and deeply unsettling experience for those who appreciate horror that delves into the human psyche. It is a testament to Perkins’s ability to craft stories that linger in the mind long after the credits roll. “Longlegs” is a must-watch for fans of psychological horror and supernatural thrillers. It is a dark and twisted tale that explores the nature of fear and the power of the past, leaving a lasting impression on its audience.