wednesday, july 24 (2024)
to preface, this film had a lot of hype, especially within the film community, so I had really high hopes considering how other new releases at the moment have been received. unfortunately, when the film finished, I was left underwhelmed, and it wasn’t a great feeling.
i was really into the cinematography; it was shot so well. the wideness of the shots made you feel uneasy and almost the opposite of claustrophobic, which is what horror films usually go for. it made you feel like something could creep up on you at any moment. this aspect of the film truly stood out and added a unique tension to the viewing experience.
both the leads, Lee Harker (Maika Monroe) and Longlegs (Nicholas Cage), delivered really strong performances. they brought depth to their characters and kept me engaged throughout the movie. their chemistry and individual portrayals were highlights in an otherwise predictable plot. i really enjoyed the mother character (Alicia Witt) and she really worked in that dissociative character style.
the film, while compelling and unsettling, felt super predictable. i understand that there’s only so much unpredictability one can achieve in this genre, and I applaud the filmmakers for creating such an engaging story and character. the concept of a small-town FBI case was interesting, but I couldn't shake the feeling that something was missing by the end.
another aspect that impacted my experience was the timing of the film’s release. using the quietness and calmness of winter is a brilliant choice for a horror film, but releasing it in the middle of summer was a misstep. walking out of the cinema into the bright, sunny day undermined the lingering fear and atmosphere the film worked hard to build. if it had been winter, the film might have felt more frightening and impactful, aligning better with its chilling themes.
in summary, while Longlegs boasts impressive cinematography and strong performances from its leads, it ultimately falls short due to its predictability and poorly timed release. It’s a film that could have benefited greatly from a winter release to enhance its atmospheric horror. nevertheless, it’s a commendable effort and worth a watch for its visual storytelling and acting. i will absolutely be revisiting nearer the end of the year!
★★★☆☆
