“Longlegs” (2024) is a horror-thriller directed by Osgood Perkins, known for his distinctive and atmospheric storytelling style. The film stars Nicolas Cage in the lead role, which has generated considerable buzz given his recent resurgence in more eclectic and challenging roles.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Directed by | Osgood Perkins |
| Written by | Osgood Perkins |
| Produced by | Dan Kagan, Brian Kavanaugh-Jones, Nicolas Cage, Dave Caplan, Chris Ferguson |
| Starring | Maika Monroe, Nicolas Cage, Blair Underwood, Alicia Witt, Michelle Choi-Lee, Dakota Daulby |
| Cinematography | Andrés Arochi |
| Edited by | Greg Ng, Graham Fortin |
| Music by | Zilgi |
| Production companies | C2 Motion Picture Group, Traffic, Range, Oddfellows, Saturn Films |
| Distributed by | Neon (United States), Black Bear International (International) |
| Release date | July 12, 2024 |
| Running time | 101 minutes |
| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Budget | < $10 million |
| Box office | $22.6 million |
Plot Summary:
The movie centers around an FBI agent who becomes embroiled in a series of gruesome murders with a supernatural twist. As he delves deeper into the case, he discovers a connection to an elusive entity known as “Longlegs.” The narrative blends procedural elements with supernatural horror, creating a tense and eerie atmosphere.
Performances:
- Nicolas Cage delivers a compelling performance, balancing his character’s stoicism with moments of intense emotion and fear. His portrayal is both nuanced and captivating, adding depth to the film’s chilling narrative.
- The supporting cast, including emerging talents, contributes solid performances that help build the film’s suspenseful and mysterious tone.
Direction and Cinematography:
- Osgood Perkins‘ direction is meticulous and atmospheric, emphasizing slow-building tension and eerie visuals. His use of lighting and camera angles enhances the film’s unsettling ambiance.
- The cinematography is striking, with hauntingly beautiful shots that linger in the viewer’s mind. The film’s visual style is both a tribute to classic horror and a fresh take on the genre.
Writing and Pacing:
- The screenplay is well-crafted, weaving together elements of psychological horror and crime thriller. The dialogue is sharp, and the plot twists are well-executed, keeping the audience engaged throughout.
- The pacing is deliberate, allowing for a gradual build-up of tension. While some may find the slower pace challenging, it ultimately pays off in creating a deeply immersive experience.
Themes and Atmosphere:
- “Longlegs” explores themes of obsession, fear, and the unknown. The supernatural elements are handled with subtlety, making them all the more unsettling.
- The film’s atmosphere is its strongest asset, with a pervasive sense of dread that keeps viewers on edge. The sound design and musical score further enhance this, contributing to the film’s overall impact.
Overall Impressions:
“Longlegs” is a standout entry in the horror-thriller genre, showcasing Osgood Perkins’ skill as a director and Nicolas Cage’s versatility as an actor. Its blend of supernatural horror and crime drama offers a unique and engaging experience for fans of both genres. While its deliberate pacing may not appeal to everyone, those who appreciate atmospheric and psychologically driven horror will find “Longlegs” to be a memorable and chilling film.
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