‘X’ movie review: Ti West’s Finest
Starring Mia Goth, Martin Henderson, Brittany Snow, Jenna Ortega, Scott Mescudi (AKA Kid Cudi), Owen Campbell and Stephen Ure
“X,” the latest feature from the always refreshing A24 films, follows a group of aspiring filmmakers who travel to a farm to shoot a dirty movie. Once there, they encounter the landowners, an elderly couple plagued by strange lifestyles. In time, blood, sex and scares come into play, unleashing a narrative that possesses the unique ability to get under one’s skin. Get excited, film fans, because you are in for an insanely fun time at the movies.
Ti West (the writer/director/co-editor) does a fine job of slowly but surely progressing the plot of “X,” a slasher flick that refuses to disappoint throughout the entirety of its runtime. Reminiscent of Tobe Hooper’s “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” (1974), Eliot Rockett’s effective cinematography focuses on eerie, sun-drenched land all while introducing distinguishable characters who are infinitely watchable. Quite frankly, no one in the film is a weak link. Everyone has different roles and views regarding the industry they are in, making even the slow-burn portions of the narrative an engaging experience, filled with character exploration and existential discussions. As a result, “X” is a film where every character serves a purpose, a rarity within the medium of movie making.
In “X,” the utilization of elderly characters is a breath of fresh air, unlike anything seen in previous horror flicks. At first, M. Night Shyamalan’s “The Visit” (2015), a film in which elderly characters are effectively creepy but not connected to any sense of deep meaning, comes to mind. Thankfully, there’s much more than meets the eye as West peels back the layers, showcasing the thematic bite that defines his creations. He imbues these elderly hosts with many layers of mystery, making both their morality and motives unclear. Information is casually revealed, but never paints the picture too clearly. This employment of narrative leads to shocking events that will discomfort audience members, especially during the bonkers third act.
Even during the slower periods, there are surprisingly scary moments sprinkled throughout. West, a horror master at this point, takes pride in the build up and pay off of scares, making every minute worthwhile and ensuring that the climax is as impactful as possible. Many of the suspense sequences are carefully paced, with a keen eye toward sticking the landing. Overall, the film continually revs up, leading to an all out blood bath that will satisfy both gore fans and rhetorical minded individuals. In good time, West delivers the slasher goods, displaying the violence and madness often associated with killer entertainment.
The kills, while violent, are skillfully done, but never reach the point of gratuitous mayhem. Even if the violence is extended, it’s meant to add to the tormented individuals that lurk in the shadows. There’s always something to say or think about, but thankfully, the story is not preachy. Even the theme of sex, a common term within the horror genre, is presented in a wholly unique way. Whereas many scary movies utilize sex in distasteful ways, “X” goes deep into the term, exploring poignant existential avenues such as love, intimacy, aging and desire. In turn, West and company stay away from the flaws that come with surface level storytelling, creating something that possesses true staying power.
In conclusion, West’s film stays away from the cliche storytelling of many standard horror flicks, proving to be a piece of cinema that unfolds in devilishly intelligent ways. In my opinion, two of West’s best films are “The House of the Devil” (2009) and “The Inkeepers” (2011). I always felt that it would be tough for West to top those efforts, but somehow, he has pulled it off. While those horror films are rewarding upon multiple viewings, they fall short of being infinitely rewatchable due to their glacial pace. “X,” on the other hand, is a refined piece of work, the kind of filmmaking that stems from a director who has grown in masterful ways. My dear readers, watch “X” ASAP. It begs to be seen on the big screen.
My Opinion:
Great (level 4)
