It would seem like there’s a new horror film out every week but for that genre quantity doesn’t equal quality. However, being made on low budgets allows for creative freedom which can reach a large audience and provide an opportunity for exciting voices to shine through. Longlegs is one of those films.

Longlegs combines the serial killer thriller with the occult to disquieting effect. Over the past 30 years, there have been a series of whole family murders which would appear disconnected aside from the fact they have all been penned by a serial killer who goes by Longlegs. FBI Agent Lee Parker, who has semi-psychic abilities, is assigned to finally solving this puzzling case, which alarmingly seems to connect with her own life.

Having such a demanding job requires looking at tragedy and the darkest sides of humanity through a cold and objective lens and therefore acting desensitised to the worst sides of humanity. Lee is a very reserved and calm character, confident and determined to tackle this mystery but the growing revelation of how it links to her past makes it personal and so brings out the emotion in her, as we see through Maika Monroe’s incredible performance as our human guide through this descent into madness.

This is sharply contrasted with Nicolas Cage’s terrifying performance as Longlegs portraying him as a satanical Joker and going extreme Nicolas Cage. With alarmingly pale skin paint, he looks the part for a monster and his disjointed, crazed manner of speaking as he recites his religion makes for something so unsettling whenever he’s on screen.

The cinematography is astonishing where its major theme became clear to me through its clever use of tracking shots where it initially follows Lee from behind as she approaches a scene but after a particular incident it instead follows her from in front as the impersonal becomes personal. It also depicts bleak environments and makes them feel so cinematic both in its ultra-wide shots and its 4:3 claustrophobic flashbacks.  It’s minimalist sets with stark lights add to the atmosphere. Alongside startingly and unnerving sound design, it all creates such a creepy atmosphere dripping with dread.

Longlegs is an absolute must see. While it does have some jump scares, it’s far more built off tension, dread and sheer momentum as its mystery unfolds and reveals dark and unexpected revelations. Even knowing the answers, with this being my second watch, it left me spellbound and breathless- a sign of not just a great horror movie but a great piece of cinema that’s grip only tightens and further disturbs the more it progresses.

Harry Denton

Longlegs is still showing this Sunday to Wednesday