Longlegs American Movie Review

Longlegs, directed by Osgood Perkins, son of Anthony Perkins of Psycho fame and model/actress Berry Berenson, is an ambitious attempt to blend horror with a procedural FBI thriller. Known for his introspective horror films like The Blackcoat’s Daughter, I Am the Pretty Thing That Lives in the House, and Gretel & Hansel, Perkins ventures into a different territory with Longlegs. Despite the hype generated by its intriguing trailer, the film ultimately falls short of expectations.

Longlegs American Movie Review

Longlegs American Movie Plot Summary:

Set in the year 2000, Longlegs follows Lee Harker (Maika Monroe), a newly inducted FBI agent assigned to track down a satanic cult-linked serial killer known as Longlegs, portrayed by Nicolas Cage in heavy prosthetics. The film opens with Lee and her partner, Agent Fisk (Dakota Daulby), embarking on their first field assignment. Tragedy strikes almost immediately, with Fisk getting shot in the chest, setting the stage for a tense, albeit uneven, narrative.

YouTube (NEON)

The storyline explores Lee’s struggle with anxiety and inexperience as she navigates the dangerous world of cults and serial killers. Her partner, Agent Carter (Blair Underwood), is skeptical of her abilities, and her journey is fraught with psychological and physical challenges. Lee’s backstory, which unravels towards the climax, introduces a personal connection to the case, adding layers to her character but also raising more questions than answers.

Longlegs American Movie Cast and Performances:

Maika Monroe as Lee Harker: Monroe delivers a competent performance as the anxious, inexperienced FBI agent. Her portrayal of Lee’s internal struggles is compelling, though the script does not fully develop her character.
Nicolas Cage as Longlegs: Cage’s portrayal of the satanic serial killer is haunting, though his screen time is limited. The heavy prosthetics and makeup add to the character’s eerie presence.
Blair Underwood as Agent Carter: Underwood plays Lee’s boss, providing a steady performance as the skeptical but supportive mentor.
Alicia Witt as Ruth Harker: Witt’s role as Lee’s deeply religious mother adds a personal dimension to the narrative, though their relationship feels underexplored.
Dakota Daulby as Agent Fisk: Daulby’s role is brief but impactful, serving as a catalyst for Lee’s journey.
Michelle Choi-Lee, Lauren Acala, and Kiernan Shipka: The supporting cast contributes to the narrative but fails to leave a lasting impression.

Longlegs American Movie Direction and Screenplay:

Osgood Perkins’ direction is atmospheric, creating a sense of unease and mystery. However, the screenplay, written by Perkins, struggles with character development and narrative cohesion. The film’s pacing is deliberate, which allows for some tension to build, but the reliance on clichés and a lack of genuine scares undermine its potential as a horror film.

Longlegs American Movie Technical Aspects:

Cinematography: Andrés Arochi’s cinematography is a highlight, utilizing a variety of frames, cold and dark visuals, and a subdued color palette to create a chilling atmosphere.
Music and Sound Design: The music by Zilgi, inspired by The Shining, and the sound design by Eugenio Battaglia, fail to enhance the film’s tension effectively.
Special Effects and Design: The special effects and design are underwhelming, with the portrayal of the long-legged antagonist falling short of its intriguing concept.

Longlegs American Movie Rating:

Rating: 3/5

Verdict:

Longlegs is a darkly disturbing film with moments of chilling mystery, but it does not fully succeed as a horror movie. The film’s procedural elements and psychological depth are intriguing, yet the lack of cohesive narrative and genuine scares diminish its impact. While the cinematography and atmosphere are commendable, Longlegs ultimately leaves much to be desired.

FAQs: (Frequently asked Questions)

Who directed Longlegs?
Longlegs is directed by Osgood Perkins.
Who are the main cast members in Longlegs?
The main cast includes Maika Monroe, Nicolas Cage, Blair Underwood, Alicia Witt, Michelle Choi-Lee, Dakota Daulby, Lauren Acala, and Kiernan Shipka.
What is the plot of Longlegs?
Longlegs follows FBI agent Lee Harker as she tracks down a satanic cult-linked serial killer known as Longlegs, while dealing with her own psychological struggles and personal connections to the case.
Is Longlegs a horror movie?
Longlegs is a blend of horror and procedural thriller elements, though it leans more towards the latter.
What is the runtime of Longlegs?
The film has a runtime of 101 minutes.
How is Nicolas Cage’s performance in Longlegs?
Nicolas Cage delivers a haunting performance as the satanic serial killer Longlegs, though his screen time is limited.
What are the strengths of Longlegs?
The film’s strengths lie in its atmospheric direction, compelling cinematography, and the intriguing concept of the long-legged antagonist.
What are the weaknesses of Longlegs?
The film struggles with character development, narrative cohesion, and a lack of genuine scares, making it fall short as a horror movie.
What is the critical reception of Longlegs?
Longlegs has received mixed reviews, with a rating of 3 out of 5. Critics have pointed out its tonal inconsistencies and underwhelming horror elements.
Is Longlegs worth watching?
Longlegs is worth watching for fans of atmospheric thrillers and procedural dramas, though those seeking a traditional horror experience may be disappointed.