Each summer, it seems like a horror film comes out of nowhere to take over the world. This year, that film is Longlegs.
In Longlegs, Agent Lee Harker (Maika Monroe) is recruited by the FBI to hunt a serial killer, known only as Longlegs (Nicolas Cage). Chosen because of her potential as a psychic, Harker quickly discovers a series of occult clues that suggest there’s more at work here than a mere murderous rampage. As she attempts to stop his killing spree, Harker also must navigate both her own inner demons and a past that she cannot shake
Written and directed by Oz Perkins, Longlegs isn’t terrifying because of any particularly graphic content. Neither is it terrifying because of any demonic special effects. Instead, Longlegs is terrifying because it is unsettling.
Deeply, deeply unsettling.
This is the sort of film that bothers the viewer because it simply feels like it’s not the way that things are supposed to be. Part Silence of the Lambs and part 70’s supernatural horror, Longlegs is a gripping exploration of the evil that surrounds us (and inside of us). This is the sort of film that wants us to remember that the darkness exists, even if we choose to ignore it.
Balancing spiritual and psychological horror, Perkins ensures that Longlegs is a mood. Bathing the world in either bleached whites or deep reds and black, the film never allows you to get too comfortable. What’s more, through his slow camera pans, we are forced to see the world unravel in his pacing. Even in scenes where characters seem to be safe, we still feel as though they are being hunted. We are not allowed to feel settled because none of the characters are. (In other words, if you’re eating a bowl of heebies, Longlegs wants to make sure you also get a side of the jeebies too.)
Though, make no mistake. The most bone-chilling aspect of Longlegs is Cage. As the horrifying Longlegs himself, Cage is positively unhinged. But this isn’t merely ‘crazy Cage’, like we’ve seen in other films. Instead, it might be some of the best work of his career. In a performance reminiscent of Ledger’s Joker, Cage completely disappears into the role with petrifying results. One can hardly stand to look at him yet neither can you look away. Frankly, it’s an award-worthy performance that drives the film, despite his limited screentime.
There’s something bleak about Longlegs that sits with you long after the credits roll. This is a world that sits the viewer in the shadows and leaves them there. Staring into the soul of humanity, this is a world where hope remains fleeting and darkness feels immersive.
But, it’s also entirely compelling. Original and unrelenting, this is exactly the type of psychological ride that achieves its goals on every level. There’s little question that Longlegs will have long legs in the minds of its viewers and, likely, the box office. Though, you will also feel like you have the teeth of the hydra upon you as you leave.
Longlegs is available in theatres on Friday, July 12th, 2024.
