Andrei Girard’s review published on Letterboxd:
This film is definitely not going to work for everyone, as it partially depends on whether you find its title character convincing or not. I know some people have found Cage's performance to be a bit cartoonish and unintentionally hilarious, and whilst I can somewhat understand why someone would see it that way, it just wasn't my case. In fact, I found this character completely disconnected from any other role Cage has embodied to this date. Longlegs doesn't resemble Nicolas Cage at all. There is just something about this character that makes me feel so uneasy; the make-up, the prosthetics, the tone of his voice and the way he approaches people. It just feels so unnatural to me. He resembles a clown at points, and I just don't like clowns. I understand why someone would find him funny instead of frightening, as clowns are meant to entertain people, but for me, it was thoroughly off-putting and profoundly unnerving. I guess that's why it worked for me. I thought it was a clever idea to add the make-up and prosthetics to somewhat distant Cage's iconic facial features from the character, and his performance as this oddball satanic serial killer was quite convincing to me. Besides Cage, the rest of the cast also delivers some remarkable performances. Blair Underwood is such a terrific actor and plays an essential role in the film. I just hope he gets to star in more horror films. Alicia Witt fully surrendered to her complex character, delivering a hauntingly captivating performance that I won't be able to forget soon. Kiernan Shipka has a one-take monologue scene that was so well performed that sent shivers down my spine. Last but not least, I really liked Maika Monroe's performance in this film. It was certainly more subdued in comparison to the others, but her character always kept me intrigued. Everyone was exceptional in their own way.
For the most part, Longlegs is an effective, anxiety-inducing psychological horror film and a fascinating examination of evil that's definitely more than just shock value. It manages to build such an oppressive atmosphere of dread throughout — almost suffocating — that really keeps you hooked. Whilst initially restraint in its approach, the film starts slowly revealing itself as it progresses, adding new details and symbols to focus on. I also loved how they play with different aspect ratios, long shots and frames to give the film a distinctive quality. Unfortunately, I didn't love the direction the story took in its final act, where it unnecessarily over explains itself to the point that it took away much of the initial intrigue it had previously built. It's definitely not a perfect film. Nevertheless, it delivers on its horrifying premise and draws you into its compelling narrative. Longlegs is an incredibly tense and deeply perturbing piece of psychological horror that truly gets under your skin.
If I had to pick, I think I'd still pick The Blackcoat's Daughter over this. I really liked that film on a rewatch. I'm quite intrigued by Osgood Perkins’ creative vision. Looking forward to whatever he does next.
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