Longlegs [DVD]

Let me first begin by saying that you should largely be skeptical about the low-star reviews for this film, many of which seem motivated by the film not living up to the hype-fueled expectations instilled by entertainment media insiders and their off-the-mark comparisons to other high-profile popular films, or by other emotionalisms not really related to fairly and objectively critiquing the film itself. Speaking plainly, this is a film for an audience that appreciates good filmmaking, good writing, and technical film expertise, and an audience interested in investing itself in deciphering what unfolds and making its own interpretations as to meaning rather than just being passive and non-contemplative.Having said that, if this film should be compared to any other film, it should be compared to Oz Perkins’ previous masterpiece film, “The Blackcoat’s Daughter.” That film and Longlegs share much filmic DNA - so much so that I almost consider Longlegs a companion piece to “The Blackcoat’s Daughter.” The traits that these two films have in common include cinematographic style, sound elements and scoring, certain cast members, and even major thematic elements and story features.In any case, Longlegs is a film filled with a dark atmosphere, eeriness, and anxiety-inducing dread, and a film that heavily preys psychologically upon the audience. On the surface the film is a very effective law enforcement-centric crime thriller with VERY creepy horror elements, including supernatural elements. Subtextually however, it is a film about the nature of family relationships (particularly mother-daughter relationships), father figures, mental illness and trauma, the consequences of abandonment, and an examination of the nature of good and evil.The film does indeed have some scripted and visual nods to both crime and horror films as well as actual famous real-world murders and murder cases (this fact is probably what prompted the entertainment media’s misguided comparisons to other films in terms of the film as a whole.) Background props and set pieces for example are very telling in this film – like the Volkswagen Beetle that is featured, which was a deliberate callout in my opinion to a certain notorious real-life case. It is fun to see how many you can catch; and I enjoyed seeing what all I could spot as the film progressed and integrating those catches into my personal formulations in terms of the film’s meanings.The primary cast was mostly great. Maika Monroe was good as usual, and it was really fun seeing Alicia Witt back in a horror genre film. I also personally loved Nicolas Cage in this film. Some people seem to feel his performance is unintentionally humorous and over the top, but I disagree – I thought his performance was disconcerting and creepy and perfectly in-keeping with the unhinged nature and dark pathologies key to the film. It was also a total treat to see Kiernan Shipka back for a minor role, who was the standout star in “The Blackcoat’s Daughter.”As for my minor nits, I would say that some of the scenes were too dark. I realize that this was intentional on the part of the filmmakers given the film’s dark themes, but it made it hard to take in certain scenes/shots nonetheless. Also, a couple of the supporting roles could have been better cast.To conclude, my final rating is 4 and 1/2 stars, and I say to definitely pick this film up, as it is a film that will add to your enjoyment with rewatches. If you find that you like this film, I very highly recommend checking out “The Blackcoat’s Daughter” as a companion piece.

I cannot get over how much concentrated quality is present in this film. The acting, the script, the cinematography, everything works together and absolutely mesmerizes the audience. I saw this in a packed theater and at home - and both viewing experiences were fantastic. Long live the Cage!

Creepy movie. Great addition to our collection

Great film and awesome looking case. 4-star review simply because my steelbook case came with a minor dent on the front side.

THE BEST HORROR THRILLER OF THE YEAR!!!!COO-COOCOO-COO!

No problem with the packaging. Arrived within 10 days of ordering.

Plenty of hype and it may be some people's cup of tea but for me it lacked that special ingredient ---- a really bad villain you want to boo or a hero/heroine you cheered on.Disappointing Cage (hardly recognizable) and an FBI agent who was so bland (at least you felt for Clarice in 'Silence of the Lambs). The others were totally forgettable and it must be because this was so poorly written and not because of poor acting.The story line is good but ruined by the lack of tension shown throughout. And the accomplice of the killer ---a reveal--- could be seen a mile off.The bonus is that there are subtitles and some good bonus features on this dvd (all red cover).

Cold-chill disturbing. I loved it! I will watch it again and again.