Ti West's "X" cuts a fresh path through the familiar territory of the slasher film. Steeped in a lovingly recreated 1970s aesthetic, the film follows an adult film crew on a secluded shoot who find themselves stalked by a deranged elderly couple, Howard and Pearl. This 2022 horror film is a love letter to the golden age of the slasher, a period defined by practical effects, deliberate pacing, and a surprising amount of character development before the body count rises. While "X" wears its influences proudly, West injects his own style and wit, resulting in a film that feels fresh and thematically rich.
Set against the backdrop of the sun-drenched Texas countryside, "X" follows a ragtag crew of adult filmmakers on a secluded shoot. Their ambition - to capture a porno masterpiece - is both their driving force and their eventual downfall. The charismatic Maxine (played with a captivating duality by Mia Goth) leads the charge, determined to carve her name into the annals of adult cinema history. The rest of the cast is equally well-drawn, from the troubled young starlet Bobby-Lynne (Brittany Snow) to her weary boyfriend Jackson (Kid Cudi). West takes his time establishing these characters, allowing us to become invested in their dreams, desires, and ultimately, their struggle for survival.
As the crew delves deeper into their project, they become unknowingly observed by the film's true antagonists: Howard (Martin Henderson) and Pearl (also played by Goth in a transformative performance). This elderly couple, residing in the secluded farmhouse that serves as the film's setting, harbor a darkness that slowly reveals itself. Themes of aging, desire, and the fleeting nature of beauty bubble just beneath the surface, adding a layer of complexity to the standard slasher fare.
The film's slow-burn approach might test the patience of viewers accustomed to the frenetic energy of modern horror. However, West rewards those who stay the course with masterfully crafted suspense. The Texas sun becomes a character itself, casting long shadows that heighten our sense of unease. The camerawork, particularly the use of lingering 360-degree shots, is deliberate and effective, creating a palpable tension that explodes into gloriously gory violence in the film's latter half. Thankfully, West eschews CGI in favor of practical effects, a choice that adds to the film's retro charm and authenticity.
"X" isn't for everyone. The heavy use of nudity and graphic violence might alienate some viewers. Additionally, the film's deeper themes are more subtle and may not resonate with everyone seeking a straightforward gorefest.
But for those seeking a slasher with a bite, "X" delivers. It's a film that rewards repeat viewings, offering new layers to discover with each encounter. Fans of classic slashers like "The Texas Chain Saw Massacre" will find much to love here, while those seeking a more thoughtful exploration of genre tropes will appreciate West's masterful execution. Consider watching it as a double feature with its prequel, "Pearl," released later in 2022, for an even deeper exploration of the characters and themes. Ultimately, "X" is a satisfying and stylish horror experience, proving that there's still plenty of life left in the slasher genre, especially in the capable hands of Ti West.
7.225/10.
Set against the backdrop of the sun-drenched Texas countryside, "X" follows a ragtag crew of adult filmmakers on a secluded shoot. Their ambition - to capture a porno masterpiece - is both their driving force and their eventual downfall. The charismatic Maxine (played with a captivating duality by Mia Goth) leads the charge, determined to carve her name into the annals of adult cinema history. The rest of the cast is equally well-drawn, from the troubled young starlet Bobby-Lynne (Brittany Snow) to her weary boyfriend Jackson (Kid Cudi). West takes his time establishing these characters, allowing us to become invested in their dreams, desires, and ultimately, their struggle for survival.
As the crew delves deeper into their project, they become unknowingly observed by the film's true antagonists: Howard (Martin Henderson) and Pearl (also played by Goth in a transformative performance). This elderly couple, residing in the secluded farmhouse that serves as the film's setting, harbor a darkness that slowly reveals itself. Themes of aging, desire, and the fleeting nature of beauty bubble just beneath the surface, adding a layer of complexity to the standard slasher fare.
The film's slow-burn approach might test the patience of viewers accustomed to the frenetic energy of modern horror. However, West rewards those who stay the course with masterfully crafted suspense. The Texas sun becomes a character itself, casting long shadows that heighten our sense of unease. The camerawork, particularly the use of lingering 360-degree shots, is deliberate and effective, creating a palpable tension that explodes into gloriously gory violence in the film's latter half. Thankfully, West eschews CGI in favor of practical effects, a choice that adds to the film's retro charm and authenticity.
"X" isn't for everyone. The heavy use of nudity and graphic violence might alienate some viewers. Additionally, the film's deeper themes are more subtle and may not resonate with everyone seeking a straightforward gorefest.
But for those seeking a slasher with a bite, "X" delivers. It's a film that rewards repeat viewings, offering new layers to discover with each encounter. Fans of classic slashers like "The Texas Chain Saw Massacre" will find much to love here, while those seeking a more thoughtful exploration of genre tropes will appreciate West's masterful execution. Consider watching it as a double feature with its prequel, "Pearl," released later in 2022, for an even deeper exploration of the characters and themes. Ultimately, "X" is a satisfying and stylish horror experience, proving that there's still plenty of life left in the slasher genre, especially in the capable hands of Ti West.
7.225/10.
