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Sukanya reviews Longlegs, a chilling horror film directed by Osgood Perkins, for its gripping narrative, unsettling atmosphere, and strong performances, exclusively for Different Truths.
Longlegs, a 2024 American horror thriller film, is written and directed by Osgood Perkins. Starring Maika Monroe and Nicolas Cage, who also produced the film through his Saturn Films production company, the cast features Blair Underwood, Alicia Witt, Michelle Choi-Lee, and Dakota Daulby in supporting roles. The film centers around an FBI agent tasked with tracking down an occultist serial killer responsible for murdering multiple families across America, without ever being physically present at the crime scenes.
Released by Neon on July 12, 2024, Longlegs has set a high bar for horror thrillers. Set against the eerie backdrop of 1970s Oregon and spanning decades, the film intertwines elements of horror, thriller, and the supernatural, promising a gripping and chilling cinematic experience. From the onset, the film’s premise of a clairvoyant FBI agent hunting a seemingly omnipresent killer captivated me, setting high expectations for an intense narrative.
From the very beginning, Longlegs, had me hooked. The opening scene, featuring a young girl encountering the unsettling figure of Longlegs, sets a haunting tone. The transition to the 1990s with FBI agent Lee Harker’s introduction is seamless, and her inexplicable intuition adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. The film masterfully balances the buildup of suspense with the unraveling mystery of the occultist killer.
As the plot progresses, the tension only escalates. The meticulous detail in crafting each crime scene, the cryptic letters, and the eerie connection between the victims’ daughters create a suffocating atmosphere. The discovery of the doll with a strange metal orb and the subsequent violent psychic flashes further deepens the film’s dark allure. Lee’s personal connection to Longlegs and her uncovering of her own past adds emotional depth to the thrilling chase.
The climax is nothing short of spectacular. The interrogation of Longlegs, his chilling self-inflicted death, and the revelation of Ruth’s involvement in the crimes are executed with precision. The final showdown at the Carter household, where Lee confronts the possessed family and ultimately her mother, is intense and gripping. The film’s ability to maintain suspense and deliver shocking twists until the very end is commendable.
Longlegs excels in every aspect of filmmaking. Osgood Perkins’ direction is impeccable, blending psychological and supernatural horror to create a nightmarish experience. The performances, particularly those of Maika Monroe and Nicolas Cage, are compelling and add depth to the characters. The film’s pacing is perfect, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats without a moment of dullness.
In conclusion, Longlegs is a fantastic film that has done everything with utmost perfection to grip the attention of viewers and keep them hooked till the end. From its hauntingly beautiful cinematography to its intricate plot and stellar performances, the film stands out as a masterpiece in the horror thriller genre. Every element, from the eerie soundtrack to the meticulously crafted scenes, contributes to a relentless and immersive cinematic experience. Longlegs is a must-watch for horror enthusiasts and a testament to the power of well-executed storytelling.
Picture design by Anumita Roy
Feature picture from IMDb
