In Longlegs, Oz Perkins ventures into uncharted territory, and invites audiences into a world of chilling mystery and psychological intrigue. Building on his previous works, Perkins crafts a narrative that feels more like an artful exploration than a traditional horror film, making it surprisingly accessible yet deeply unsettling.

The story follows FBI agent Lee Harker, portrayed by Maika Monroe, who becomes embroiled in a chilling case involving a series of murders. Harker’s investigation leads her to a supernatural entity known as Longlegs, which has a disturbing and mysterious connection to her past. As she delves deeper into the case, Harker must confront her own demons and unravel the dark secrets surrounding Longlegs. Monroe delivers a performance very deliberately and smartly devoid of overt emotion, capturing Harker’s resolve and underlying vulnerability with a nuanced and restrained approach.

The narrative unfolds through a series of cryptic events, where every character choice and twist holds profound meaning. Perkins’ knack for visual storytelling shines through, infusing each scene with atmospheric tension and a sense of impending dread. This is heightened by Nicolas Cage’s tour-de-force performance, which oscillates between manic intensity and eerie stillness, cementing his character’s place in the pantheon of memorable cinematic figures.

Thematically, Longlegs delves into dark territories reminiscent of Hereditary, exploring familial bonds tainted by sinister forces. The film’s conclusion leaves ample room for interpretation, echoing Perkins’ penchant for creating narratives that resonate long after the screen fades to black.

Visually arresting and narratively ambitious, Longlegs marks a significant step forward for Perkins as a filmmaker. It transcends his earlier works by avoiding self-indulgence and embracing a narrative depth that rewards attentive viewers. With its haunting imagery and standout performances, particularly from Nicolas Cage and Maika Monroe, Longlegs firmly establishes Perkins’ talent back on track. [B+]