Entertainment
Behind the Creepiness: The Making of Longlegs
John Louis Mercado
Maika Monroe as FBI Agent Lee Harker in the film ‘LongLegs’
Looking for a film that will haunt your dreams?
In the world of horror, it's rare to find a film that lingers in your mind long after the credits roll, creeping into your thoughts like a dark shadow. Longlegs, the 2024 horror-thriller film written and directed by Osgood Perkins, is one such film. Starring Maika Monroe, Nicolas Cage, Blair Underwood, and Alicia Witt, Longlegs has quickly become a defining moment in modern horror. Set in the 1990s, the movie follows an FBI agent who is trying to find a serial killer. The killer commits crimes without being physically present, which makes the story even more mysterious.
Nicolas Cage at the premiere of 'Longlegs' held at the Egyptian Theater on July 8, 2024 in Los Angeles, California (Photo by Richard Shotwell)
A Stellar Cast and Visionary Direction
Osgood Perkins' Longlegs combines horror with psychological tension to create a truly terrifying atmosphere. The film's setting in the 1990s adds a nostalgic yet eerie backdrop, reminiscent of classic horror films from the era. Nicolas Cage, who is also a producer through his company Saturn Films, delivers a frightening performance as the serial killer in the movie. Many people have praised his role as one of the scariest in recent years.
Cage's performance as Longlegs is captivating. His character brought it to life in a physically and psychologically unsettling manner, with a haunting and unique look and voice. As Cage explained in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, the creation of Longlegs was about "finding this very androgynous, he-she looks, glam rock look to the character." This androgyny, combined with his high-pitched, fragile voice, creates a villain who is as enigmatic as he is terrifying.
Maika Monroe takes on the role of FBI Agent Lee Harker, acting opposite Nicolas Cage in the film ‘Longlegs’.
The Hype Behind Longlegs
The excitement for Longlegs was noticeable well before it was released. Neon, the film's distributor, masterfully built suspense through enigmatic mini teasers that offered just a glimpse of the terror to come. These teasers, each less than 30 seconds long, created a buzz on the internet as fans eagerly speculated about the film's plot and characters. This clever marketing strategy played a significant role in the film's success, with Longlegs grossing $102.2 million worldwide, making it Neon's highest-grossing film to date.
The critical response to Longlegs has been overwhelmingly positive, with the film currently holding a 94 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The film has been commended for its capacity to evoke a growing feeling of unease in every scene, leading to an extremely chilling overall experience. However, the hype surrounding the film is not just about its clever marketing or positive reviews. Longlegs has been hailed as the scariest movie of the year, if not the decade, largely due to Nicolas Cage's soul-shattering performance.
Nicolas Cage takes on the role of a terrifying serial killer named ‘Longlegs’ in the film ‘Longlegs’.
A Personal Nightmare
For me, Longlegs was literally a nightmare brought to life. The film's pervasive creepiness and dark tone made it an unsettling experience from beginning to end. Every scene is filled with a sense of dread, and there are moments of terror that seem almost too real. The character of Longlegs, with his androgynous appearance and eerie voice, only adds to the film's disturbing nature. This movie isn't for the faint of heart. It delves deep into the darkest corners of the human mind, leaving me profoundly unsettled.
Longlegs is a film that will haunt you long after you've left the theater. It’s a masterclass in horror, combining a gripping storyline with unforgettable performances and a chilling atmosphere. Whether you're a horror enthusiast or simply seeking a film that will give you chills, Longlegs is a must-watch. But be warned: this film takes its time to captivate you, and once it does, it doesn't let go.
References:
Seemayer, Z. (2024, July 9). Entertainment tonight. Entertainment Tonight. https://www.etonline.com/longlegs-everything-to-know-about-the-horror-film-and-nicolas-cages-terrifying-transformation
Wikipedia contributors. (2024, August 30). Longlegs. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Longlegs