Review By Jon Donnis
"Longlegs" is a 2024 American horror thriller film written and directed by Osgood Perkins that takes viewers on a suspenseful and eerie journey. Set against the bleak backdrop of 1970s and 1990s Oregon, the film weaves a chilling narrative involving FBI agent Lee Harker, portrayed by Maika Monroe, as she hunts down a mysterious occultist serial killer known as Longlegs, played with unnerving intensity by Nicolas Cage.
The plot begins in the 1970s with a young girl enticed by a mysterious voice, leading to a disturbing encounter with the pale-faced Longlegs. Fast forward to the 1990s, and the narrative follows Lee Harker, a newly recruited FBI agent who exhibits an uncanny intuition, hinting at possible clairvoyance. This unique ability thrusts her into the decades-spanning case of brutal murder-suicides, each leaving behind cryptic, satanic messages signed "Longlegs." These gruesome crimes revolve around families with 9-year-old daughters, their murders occurring around the children's birthdays, forming an occult symbol on a calendar, save for one missing date.
As Lee delves deeper, aided by her sceptical supervisor Agent Carter (Blair Underwood), they unearth a doll with a metal orb inside, leading to violent psychic flashes and eerie experiences. The supernatural elements intensify as Lee suspects that these dolls, distributed by Longlegs, possess a malevolent energy that drives the fathers to commit the heinous acts. The tension mounts as hints of Longlegs' intimate knowledge of Lee's past surface, creating an unsettling connection between the hunter and the hunted.
The performances in "Longlegs" are exceptional. Maika Monroe's portrayal of Lee Harker is compelling, capturing both her vulnerability and determination. Nicolas Cage delivers one of his most memorable roles as Longlegs, his presence both magnetic and menacing. The supporting cast, including Blair Underwood, Alicia Witt, and Kiernan Shipka, contribute significantly to the film's depth and tension.
Visually, "Longlegs" is a masterpiece. Perkins creates a world that is both beautiful and terrifying, from the peculiar architecture of Harker's house to the eerie uniformity of suburban streets. The atmosphere of dread is palpable throughout the film, gripping the viewer in a vice of unease that persists long after the credits roll.
However, the film is not without its flaws. While Perkins excels at crafting mood and atmosphere, "Longlegs" sometimes feels like it relies too heavily on Cage's unique brand of madness to carry the horror. Despite the chilling ambiance, some viewers might find the film lacking in genuine scares, with the horror elements taking a backseat to the procedural aspects of the narrative.
Longlegs is a gripping thriller that excels in creating a haunting atmosphere and a lingering sense of dread. While it may not deliver the visceral scares expected from a traditional horror film, it more than compensates with its psychological intensity and superb performances. It's a film that creeps into your mind and stays with you, a testament to Perkins' craftsmanship and the stellar cast. I rate "Longlegs" a solid 7.5 out of 10, a commendable effort that offers a unique blend of supernatural mystery and psychological thriller.
Out Now in Cinemas and
Coming soon on Apple TV - https://apple.co/469Wiur
