From the moment “Longlegs” begins, the audience is plunged into an abyss of dread that never relents. This film, directed by Oz Perkins, is being hailed as the scariest film of the decade, and for good reason. Critic EJ Moreno shares his thoughts on this upcoming horror masterpiece, set to hit theaters in July. With its masterful filmmaking and stellar performances, “Longlegs” is poised to be a must-see for horror enthusiasts in 2024.
Oz Perkins, known for his work on “Gretel & Hansel,” directs “Longlegs,” which stars Maika Monroe as FBI Agent Lee Harker. The cast also includes Nicolas Cage, Blair Underwood, Kiernan Shipka, Alicia Witt, and Lisa Chandler. The plot centers around Agent Harker, who is assigned to a cold case involving a serial killer with ties to the occult. As she delves deeper, she discovers a personal connection to the killer, adding a layer of urgency to her mission.
The film opens with a haunting scene: a car drives up to a remote homestead, the frame tight and eerie, reminiscent of an old Kodachrome slide. A girl plays in the yard, and a tall man, his head just out of frame, appears. The unsettling atmosphere sets the tone for the next one hundred minutes, which are filled with anxiety and terror.
“Longlegs” is a significant leap for Perkins, whose previous works like “The Blackcoat’s Daughter” and “Gretel & Hansel” have already established him as a master of slow-burn horror. This film, however, takes his storytelling to a new level, solidifying his place among the greats of the genre.
Maika Monroe delivers a standout performance as Agent Harker, a young FBI agent tasked with solving a complex and gruesome case. Her character is reminiscent of Jodie Foster’s Clarice Starling in “Silence of the Lambs,” but Monroe brings a unique depth to the role. Harker is constantly on edge, grappling with a complicated family history and an innate gift for solving puzzles that she neither understands nor desires. Monroe’s portrayal is so compelling that the audience feels her anxiety, a rare feat in horror cinema.
Nicolas Cage, known for his eclectic roles, delivers a chilling performance as the titular Longlegs. His portrayal is both terrifying and mesmerizing, adding a new dimension to his already impressive repertoire. Cage’s ability to embody such a diabolical character is a testament to his versatility as an actor.
The film’s cinematography, led by first-time feature cinematographer Andres Arochi, is nothing short of spectacular. Each shot is meticulously crafted, drawing the audience into the frame and creating an overwhelming sense of dread. The decision to stage most shots like paintings, with minimal camera movement, adds to the film’s haunting atmosphere.
“Longlegs” is not just another horror film; it is an experience that lingers long after the credits roll. The narrative is complex and perversely gratifying, with each twist and turn adding to the sense of unease. The collaboration between Perkins and Arochi results in a film that is both visually stunning and deeply unsettling.
In a year already filled with strong horror releases, “Longlegs” stands out as the horror film of the year. It is a masterpiece of high art and anxiety, with every frame designed to induce fear. Perkins has crafted a film that will be talked about for years to come, placing him alongside horror auteurs like Ari Aster, Julia Ducournau, Jordan Peele, and Robert Eggers.
“Longlegs” is a film that defies expectations, constantly surprising the audience with its twists and turns. Just when you think you have it figured out, it takes you in a new, more frightening direction. This film is a testament to Perkins’s talent and vision, and it is destined to become a classic in the horror genre.
As the release date approaches, anticipation for “Longlegs” continues to build. Horror fans and critics alike are eager to see what Perkins has in store. With its combination of stellar performances, masterful direction, and haunting cinematography, “Longlegs” is set to be the scariest film of the decade.
