Longlegs (2024)

Longlegs is a so-called horror thriller that excels in mood and dread while attempting to be both genuinely scary and thrilling. Written and directed by Osgood ‘Oz’ Perkins, this film stars Maika Monroe as FBI agent Lee Harker, whose defining trait is her ability to feel things deeply. Not quite a sixth sense, but close enough to make her stand out.

From the start, Agent Harker’s hunches occasionally hit the mark, as showcased in the eerily effective opening scene. This scene sets the tone for the film, drawing viewers into a world where intuition and the supernatural intermingle. Harker is quick to admit, however, that her guesses are sometimes just that—guesses. Yet, a 50/50 success rate is impressive enough for a rookie detective, earning her the case of Longlegs, a mysterious serial killer who’s never present at his crime scenes. This central mystery propels the narrative: Does Longlegs have an accomplice, or is some dark force at work?

Watch: Longlegs (2024)

Monroe shines as the perceptive FBI agent, reminiscent of Jodie Foster’s Clarice Starling in The Silence of the Lambs. Her performance captures the complexity of a character who is both strong and vulnerable, driven by her instincts and haunted by her past. Backing her is her boss, Agent Carter, played by the ever-reliable Blair Underwood. Underwood brings a steadying presence to the film, grounding it with his portrayal of a seasoned agent who believes in Harker’s potential. And yes, Nicolas Cage appears for one of his signature controlled freak-out performances, adding an unpredictable energy to the mix.

The film’s Achilles’ heel, however, is its detached, coolly observant camerawork, which creates an unnecessary distance between the characters and the audience. This stylistic choice might be intended to enhance the eerie atmosphere, but it often makes it difficult for viewers to fully connect with the characters' emotions and the story’s stakes.

Set mostly in the 1990s Pacific West, with occasional jumps back to the 1970s, Longlegs draws inspiration from modern classics like The Silence of the Lambs and Seven. The film’s period settings are meticulously crafted, immersing viewers in a time before digital technology dominated investigations. These settings also enhance the film’s nostalgic appeal, grounding its supernatural elements in a gritty, realistic world. At times, Longlegs nearly reaches the level of its inspirations, weaving a narrative that is both chilling and intellectually engaging.

Perkins' direction is methodical, building tension slowly and deliberately. This pacing might not appeal to fans of fast-paced horror, but it allows for a deeper exploration of themes like intuition, the supernatural, and the psychological toll of police work. The film’s sound design and score play crucial roles in maintaining the atmosphere of dread, using subtle cues to keep viewers on edge.

And for those who love a dramatic finale, the last ten minutes are quite the punch. The climax brings together the film’s various threads in a satisfyingly tense and emotionally charged sequence. It's a conclusion that stays with you, lingering in your mind long after the credits roll.

Despite its flaws, Longlegs stands out in a crowded genre for its ambition and its atmospheric storytelling. Monroe’s performance, in particular, elevates the film, making Agent Lee Harker a character worth rooting for. The film’s exploration of the thin line between intuition and the supernatural adds a layer of depth that distinguishes it from more straightforward horror thrillers.

In conclusion, Longlegs may not be a perfect film, but it’s a compelling and moody thriller that pays homage to its genre's classics while carving out its own identity. It’s a film that rewards patience and attention to detail, offering a rich narrative experience for those willing to immerse themselves in its world. Four stars—because sometimes, mood and atmosphere can be just as powerful as outright scares.