Nicolas Cage has once again captivated audiences with his chilling performance in the horror film Longlegs, where he portrays the sinister character Dale Ferdinand Kobble. The film, which has quickly become a summer sensation, showcases Cage’s ability to blend horror with an unsettling musical element, particularly through the eerie song “Fire Fire Fire, Hiss.”
In Longlegs, Cage’s character is a devil-worshiping serial killer who has eluded law enforcement for over three decades. The film also features Maika Monroe as FBI Special Agent Lee Harker, who possesses a unique connection to Kobble. As a symbologist, she is tasked with deciphering the cryptic symbols left behind at the crime scenes, where entire families have been brutally murdered.
The song “Fire Fire Fire, Hiss” serves as a haunting backdrop to the film’s narrative. Released as part of the film’s promotional campaign, the music video features Cage’s character singing in a chilling manner, with lyrics that evoke a sense of dread. The video is accompanied by unsettling visuals, including a doll facing a lighted mirror and flashes of various symbols, enhancing the eerie atmosphere.
Cage’s portrayal of Longlegs has been met with critical acclaim, contributing to the film’s impressive box office performance. Since its release on July 12, Longlegs has grossed nearly $49 million in North America alone, far exceeding initial projections. Critics have praised the film, giving it an 86% “fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes, while audiences have responded with a more mixed 62% score.
The film’s director, Oz Perkins, has noted that the character of Longlegs was inspired by personal experiences, including a connection to his own mother. Cage echoed this sentiment, revealing that his mother’s vocalizations influenced his portrayal of the character. He described how her “scary” way of speaking helped him develop the voice of Longlegs, creating a character that is both unsettling and memorable.
Cage’s transformation into Longlegs involved extensive makeup and prosthetics, which added to the character’s menacing presence. The decision to keep Longlegs’ face hidden in promotional materials was a deliberate choice to build suspense and intrigue, drawing audiences in with the promise of a shocking reveal.
Monroe’s first encounter with Cage in character was a visceral experience, as she recalled her heart racing upon seeing him as Longlegs. This reaction speaks to the effectiveness of Cage’s performance and the impact it has had on both the cast and the audience.
As Longlegs continues to haunt theaters, the combination of Cage’s eerie musical performance and the film’s gripping narrative has solidified its place as a standout horror film of the summer. The chilling song “Fire Fire Fire, Hiss” serves as a reminder of the darkness that lurks within the character of Dale Kobble, leaving audiences both captivated and disturbed.
Source: NEON, Forbes, Deadline
