A Dazzling Nightmare: Oz Perkins’ Longlegs
Introduction to the Buzz
There’s been a lot of chatter among horror aficionados about Oz Perkins’ ‘Longlegs,’ which is finally hitting theaters on July 12th. As a film critic, I had the unique experience of watching this highly anticipated movie at a 10 a.m. press screening. Just as you get used to ultra-dark, nihilistic horror movies during deceptively sunny times, Longlegs provided an unsettling, memorable experience.
The Plot Thickens
In ‘Longlegs,’ we follow a freshly minted FBI agent, Lee Harker, played by Maika Monroe. She finds herself entangled in the pursuit of a serial killer named Longlegs, who has a sinister connection to the occult. Directed by Oz Perkins—son of ‘Psycho’ star Anthony Perkins (Norman Bates himself)—the film dives deep into darkness and nihilism, leaving audiences deeply unsettled.
A Tale of Unexpected Twists
Without giving away major spoilers, it’s essential to note that ‘Longlegs’ is a slow burn, heavily driven by atmosphere and character development. Around chapter three, the film makes an unexpected but compelling left turn, becoming something quite different from its initial advertisements—but it’s all the better for it. This movie is part of the new wave of “elevated horror,” and it cements Perkins’ place among top genre directors.
Stellar Performances and Production
Monroe shines as Lee Harker, who has a near-supernatural attunement to the crime scenes she investigates. Blair Underwood and Alicia Witt deliver strong supporting performances, with Witt’s role being particularly memorable. Nicholas Cage’s portrayal of an evil character in ‘Longlegs’ is gripping—think satanic, hideous 70s glam rocker. His performance is captivating and adds a dark layer to the film.
The production design and art direction are top-notch, creating a truly atmospheric horror film. The sparse, dread-inducing score adds to the overall sense of unease. By the time the credits rolled, I was genuinely shaken, and this film stayed with me, haunting my thoughts for weeks.
Final Verdict
‘Longlegs’ will undoubtedly make waves among horror fans. Whether it will be deemed a new classic remains to be seen, but for me, it was a dazzling piece of work. I give it a strong 9 out of 10.
