MaXXXine Film Review – Does it do the “X” Trilogy Justice?
MaXXXine Film Review | MaXXXine is the third and final film in Ti West’s trilogy, starting with X, followed by Pearl, and now culminating in this 80s-themed cinematic piece.
What stands out about Ti West’s work is how he has crafted three films that are singular in their vision, yet beautifully cohesive when viewed together. Each film can be watched in any order, providing a unique and rewarding experience every time.
X is the most classic slasher flick of the three. Pearl allows the audience to see Mia Goth truly shine, showcasing her remarkable acting skills. MaXXXine combines various elements, maintaining an ode to the classic slasher genre while incorporating numerous references to 80s Hollywood. Although Goth isn’t given as much opportunity to shine in MaXXXine as in Pearl, she still delivers a great performance. This third film focuses more on the glitz and glam of 80s Hollywood, following Goth’s character as she is on the verge of becoming a successful actress after surviving the events of X.
Set in 80s Hollywood, the film immediately establishes a gorgeous retro feel, with every scene bathed in neon, either directly or indirectly. This aesthetic is reminiscent of many 80s films, achieved through the use of mini Hawk lenses, specifically the mini Hawk hybrid anamorphics, which provide a beautiful bokeh effect in the background of many shots, adhering to a vintage, filmic feel. These technical choices by West and his cinematography team enhance the immersive experience, transporting viewers back to the vibrant and often gritty world of 80s cinema.
At its core, MaXXXine is an ode to cinema, paying tribute to movies that have influenced Ti West. The film contains numerous references, some direct and explicit, such as nods to Psycho, and others less direct, like influences from Halloween and The Texas Chainsaw Massacre. There are also more obscure references, such as to Theda Bara, a silent film star from the early 1900s, considered one of Hollywood’s first sex symbols, drawing a line back to Goth’s character. These references are not just surface-level homages but are woven into the fabric of the narrative and visual style, creating a rich tapestry of cinematic history for keen-eyed viewers to appreciate.
Goth’s performance in MaXXXine may not be as prominent as in Pearl, but she still excels. The film’s script and direction do not lean into her acting abilities as much as Pearl did. Instead, the supporting performances are given more room to be over-the-top and explore their characters’ dimensions, most notably Kevin Bacon‘s portrayal of an off-the-wall private investigator. His character adds a hilarious element to the film, which does not take itself too seriously, capturing the overall feeling of MaXXXine. Bacon’s performance is emblematic of the film’s tone, striking a balance between camp and sincerity that keeps the audience engaged and entertained.
The film is full of tropes and references to past films, all intentional. There’s a fine line between being knowingly cheesy and unintentionally so. MaXXXine falls into the former category. Some plot points and lines are corny and cheesy, but West is aware of this and shows his love for 80s films and slasher films that laid the groundwork for MaXXXine. Understanding this approach is crucial to appreciating the film. It is not meant to be a wholly intense psychological thriller, and those expecting such may be disappointed. Instead, it is a celebration of genre filmmaking, reveling in the excesses and stylistic flourishes that define the best of 80s cinema.
The climax of the film, particularly the end of the third act, is polarizing. Some viewers will love it, finding it an appropriate end to a wild ride, while others may not be fans. Despite some tongue-in-cheek dialogue and plot points, West is a master of building suspense and tension. The audience remains engaged throughout, with intriguing developments and gnarly kills, similar to those in X and Pearl. One scene in particular, set in an alley, elicited gasps, sighs, laughs, and shrieks from the audience, showcasing West’s ability to provoke strong reactions. This scene, reminiscent of Buster Keaton’s physical comedy, combined with horror elements, highlights West’s skill in blending different cinematic influences to create something unique and memorable.
West makes some statements about Hollywood’s nature and religious conservatism in the 80s, touching on the rise of evangelical groups during that period. These themes, while present, are not the main focus of the film. Instead, MaXXXine is designed to be an enjoyable experience, a thrill ride that pays homage to its predecessors while carving out its own identity. The film’s primary goal is to entertain, and it succeeds in doing so with flair and a clear affection for the genres it references.
Between MaXXXine, X, and Pearl, West has accomplished something remarkable. Crafting a trilogy over a few years that not only stands as a cohesive narrative but also explores different aspects of genre filmmaking is no small feat. Each film in the trilogy offers a distinct experience while maintaining a consistent thematic and stylistic thread. This achievement speaks to West’s versatility as a director and his deep understanding of the horror genre and its subgenres.
The trilogy’s potential to stand the test of time within a devoted audience is significant. It caters to fans of classic slasher films, 80s cinema, and those who appreciate a filmmaker’s ability to pay tribute to the past while creating something fresh and exciting. The careful attention to period detail, combined with modern filmmaking techniques, ensures that these films will be revisited and appreciated for years to come.
In conclusion, MaXXXine serves as a fitting conclusion to Ti West’s trilogy. It encapsulates the essence of what makes the previous films enjoyable while pushing the boundaries of genre filmmaking. Through its references, performances, and stylistic choices, it stands as a testament to West’s love for cinema and his ability to craft films that are both nostalgic and innovative. For fans of the trilogy, MaXXXine is a must-see, providing a satisfying end to a journey that began with X and continued through Pearl, leaving a lasting impact on the landscape of contemporary horror cinema. | MaXXXine Film Review
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