“Longlegs,” a new horror movie directed by Oz Perkins and starring Maika Monroe, premiered in theaters on July 12 and has quickly become a sensation. Set in 1990s Oregon, the narrative follows FBI agent Lee Harker as she tracks down a notorious serial killer known as Longlegs. The movie has made a significant impact, becoming the top-grossing R-rated horror film of the year. Its authenticity and gripping storyline have earned widespread acclaim from fans, making it a standout in the genre.
Building on this early success, the film continued to make waves in its second week of release. By then, the movie had already earned the title of the highest-grossing indie horror film of the past decade, surpassing A24’s “Talk to Me,” which had previously set the bar with $48 million over 91 days in theaters.
One of the strengths of “Longlegs” lies in its cinematography, which masterfully captures the eerie atmosphere of the Pacific Northwest, enhancing the tension and suspense as the story unfolds. The visual storytelling seamlessly blends with the narrative, drawing viewers further into the haunting world Harker navigates.
“I really liked the way they shot the scenes,” Lambert senior Jaden Hicks said. “For example, when you first see Longlegs, you only get a close up of half of his face. You basically don’t know what he looks like for most of the movie, but he’s still very much active.”
Hicks notes a distinctive cinematic approach where the filmmakers deliberately withheld Longlegs’ full appearance, creating suspense and fear through partial reveals. This unique technique leverages the power of the unseen to amplify tension. By engaging the audience’s imagination, the film stands out in its ability to create an unsettling atmosphere without relying on conventional horror tropes.
Another standout aspect of the film was the performance of Nicholas Cage as Longlegs.
“Nicholas Cage as Longlegs was scary,” Lambert junior Joshua Suh said. “He did a great job at portraying a lunatic serial killer who was genuinely unhinged, but he also did it in his own unique way. It was cool to see a different kind of psycho-killer rather than your average typical villain.”
Cage’s portrayal of Longlegs brought a fresh and unsettling intensity to the screen. His performance defied conventional villain archetypes, with his wild and unpredictable demeanor adding a chaotic energy that kept viewers on edge throughout the film. His unique take on a psycho-killer not only captivated audiences but also left a lasting impression that resonated long after the credits rolled.
All in all, “Longlegs” is a breath of fresh air in a genre that is typically oversaturated with a predictable formula of jumpscares and gore. Its innovative approach to suspense combined with a gripping performance from Nicholas Cage and an atmospheric setting has reinvigorated interest in horror. The film has even seemed to have gained good reception at Lambert, where students praised its unique take on the genre. “Longlegs” offers a refreshing experience, making it a must-watch for fans seeking something new and unsettling.
