BY ISAIAH RIDLEY
Community contributor
Every so often, I examine a chronological list of films slated for release during the current or upcoming year. One of the growing concerns I found myself experiencing was a complete lack of creative and interesting horror films for cinema. Questions echoed within my mind as I wondered if this would become the first year when no intriguing horror films were released?
A teaser poster displaying a woman's fearful expression with her hand on a holster that held her gun, a simple font in red showcasing the title "Longlegs" and the cast of the film itself awakened my curiosity. After watching teaser trailers, reading the film synopsis and recognizing the story told of a murder mystery, I knew it was impossible to resist. "Longlegs'" execution incorporates elements from a collection of favorite films of mine into its story without losing the atmosphere of disturbing, horrific and blood-curdling imagery fueled by haunting dialogue and acting. Upon watching the film, immediately I noticed the influences of "Silence of the Lambs," "Seven," "Prisoners" and "Zodiac," all of which shaped the story into a compelling murder mystery and horrifying spectacle.
"Longlegs" brings the tragic, haunting tale of FBI agent Lee Harker, assigned to a specific case based on her brilliant intuition with solving the complicated puzzles of murder cases. A string of familiar murders resembles twisted artistry of a serial killer known as Longlegs. Like the Zodiac killer, he leaves taunting letters, pictures, cryptic riddles and ciphers detailing his atrocious deeds. As Harker draws closer to the facts, she realizes there is a personal connection between her and Longlegs. The film stars Maika Monroe, Alicia Witt, Blair Underwood and Nicolas Cage. Allow me to state that the detail of this review is intentionally vague without venturing into the realm of revealing spoilers.
After I read the production notes of "Longlegs," it quickly became an anticipated film of 2024, raising my expectations to a reasonably prominent level. Memorable elements throughout the viewing transitioned me into a world of intense suspense, experiencing a cold, claustrophobic feeling, preparing myself for the unexpected with each passing scene. One of my favorite dynamics of a horror film is intentionally leaving what we are supposed to fear to our imagination. Unbelievably, usually what we do not see is far more frightening than anything our mind conjures. Sometimes what we do not hear fits that exact mold, too.
"Longlegs" successfully captures those concepts by having your complete attention from beginning to end. The acting is immaculate to the point of being completely believable, realistic and raw. Had I not seen Cage as part of the cast, I would not have known or recognized him during the viewing. The advertising campaign keeping his involvement secretive was brilliant, as it was obvious the goal was to create legitimate fear and shock. His performance is the definition of absolute, pure terror. I cannot express enough how much he kept me in a state of consistent fear despite the limited amount of time he is on screen.
The only way I can accurately describe the performance of Cage would have to involve a person believing if they were to stare into the reaches of everlasting darkness, the darkness itself would blink in return. Longlegs, dare I say, is the most terrifying serial killer I have ever watched on screen. Absolutely bone chilling to the core of your body and soul.
Another highlight performance is Monroe as Agent Harker. Her onscreen characterization paints the perspective for the audience that there is an unfortunate disturbing quality within her character. Deep down, it is apparent there is a nagging suspicion that mentally and emotionally she is awkward, timid and isolated. She encompasses all those traits with magnificent ease, becoming completely believable. The direction of this suspenseful presentation offers a realistic and cold investigation into the mind of an unpredictable monster.
Even when Longlegs is not in the picture, your eyes are forever searching for him, as his presence never wavers. I have to say this film is one of the scariest experiences I have ever had. There are no words to describe how disturbing, unsettling and raw the overall atmosphere how the story intentionally places the audience into an uncomfortable state. A bold prediction: "Longlegs" is going to be my favorite horror film of 2024. I do not see any other cinematic presentation coming close in the future.
And if Cage does not win an Academy Award for his performance, I will be sincerely disappointed. "Longlegs" is the perfect horror film of 2024, an absolute must-see that receives a 10/10 and two thumbs up.
To watch Isaiah Ridley's movie reviews online, find him @Izzy's Cinematic Escape on YouTube.
