A serial killer, identifying himself as Longlegs (Nicholas Cage), is terrorizing the police. While linked to multiple murders, definitive evidence remains elusive. Young FBI agent Lee Harker (Maika Monroe) and her supervisor, Agent Carter (Blair Underwood), are assigned to the case, uncovering a truth about Longlegs far more disturbing than initially anticipated.
Director and screenwriter Osgood Perkins (son of the renowned Anthony Perkins, famous for his role as Norman Bates in Psycho) draws clear inspiration for Longlegs from classic thrillers. At its peak, the film achieves a level of quality comparable to The Silence of the Lambs and Se7en. Set in 1995, Longlegs benefits from a meticulously crafted atmosphere. The retro cinematography and several intensely suspenseful scenes are particularly noteworthy.
Nicholas Cage’s portrayal of Longlegs is a captivating experience. He effectively utilizes his full range to deliver a highly entertaining and unsettling character.
Unfortunately, the strengths of Longlegs are not sustained throughout. The narrative lacks significant surprises, and the central twist becomes apparent relatively early. The film’s conclusion is particularly disappointing. Despite exhibiting superb atmosphere and tension in many scenes, the latter part of the film falters, devolving into a rushed and predictable sequence of events.
Maika Monroe’s portrayal of Agent Harker is characterized by a restrained and detached demeanor. While this acting choice aligns with the character’s development, her initial behavior raises questions about her suitability for FBI training before the plot fully unfolds.
In summary, Longlegs boasts striking visual elements, palpable tension, and a compelling performance from Nicholas Cage. However, its predictability and occasional lapses into mediocrity ultimately result in a mixed assessment.
