If someone has not seen the writer/director Ti West horror films, X and Pearl, then there may be some confusion as to who MaXXXine is and where she came from. The trilogy began with X, a violent slasher released here in Austin during the 2022 SXSW Film & Television Festival. After the theatrical release, a prequel titled Pearl was released, where audiences learned more about the villain in X. Oh yes, the violence and slashing was in full display. Occasional fans of horror films may go straight to watch MaXXXine without having seen the prior two, but it is not my recommendation. Most horror film fans will have already been following Ti West’s work on X and Pearl, so this is directed to individual’s not familiar with Mia Goth in this trilogy. While MaXXXine is good, it is best to view what this filmmaker and actress/producer created previously to best appreciate it.
MaXXXine Minx (Mia Goth) wants to be famous and by the mid- 1980’s, she is in Los Angeles after leaving Texas in the dust and her past of the previous decade (or so she thinks). By now, she has succeeded as a star in the porn industry but has her eyes on Hollywood. She is ready to slay her way to the top – standing out in an audition with the director (Elizabeth Debicki), as the one and only to play the part in a sequel to a film titled The Puritan. As the audience learns, the 80s is when the Night Stalker was leaving a trail of dead.
On the trail of the murderer is LAPD, Detective Williams (Michelle Monaghan, Mission: Impossible – Fallout) and Detective Torres (Bobby Cannavale, Ezra, Blue Jasmine). When there are several acquaintances of MaXXXine’s gone missing, they are interested in talking to her. She is not game.
Adding another rock in her shoe is a private eye John Labat (Kevin Bacon), working for an unknown individual and they have done their homework as to her past. She is on her way to being a star and is determined not to have anyone ruin it for her. I totally enjoyed Kevin’s portrayal of this character in a white suit and hat who can’t be missed. MaXXXine’s had the max of Labat’s threats and her agent/rep, Teddy Night, Esq. (Giancarlo Esposito), ensures no one interferes with her rising career. Great performances by both actors in these scenes. One actor that also caught my attention is Moses Sumney (“The Idol” TV series), as Leon, who runs the video store. He has several credits as composer and the music department and no doubt he can continue to score more acting gigs too.
There are many positive points to make about the film regarding the casting/performances, the costumes, the music and satire. By the time the audience is in deep to see what is happening in the Hollywood Hills – yes, there is action and graphic violence – with MaXXXine – ha! You will find out when you see the film and decide if you like that finale. MaXXXine opens in theaters July 5.
Rated R
Source: A 24
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