MaXXXine (2024)
R ‧ Horror/Suspense ‧ 1 Hour 44 Minutes
Written by Ti West
Directed by Ti West

In this episode of “You’re Watching A Movie With Silas Lindenstein,” Silas dives into the thrilling world of “MaXXXine,” the latest installment in Ti West’s horror trilogy. Set in the neon-drenched streets of 1980s Hollywood, “MaXXXine” follows the determined Maxxxine Minx, played by Mia Goth, as she pursues fame amidst a backdrop of suspense and slasher elements. Silas discusses the film’s nostalgic atmosphere, standout performances by a stellar cast including Kevin Bacon and Giancarlo Esposito, and the intricate character depth that makes this movie a must-watch for horror fans. Tune in to hear Silas’s full review and find out why “MaXXXine” is a gripping addition to the trilogy.

VIDEO REVIEW

AUDIO-ONLY PODCAST

WRITTEN REVIEW

MaXXXine: A Gripping Journey through the Neon-Drenched Horrors of 1980s Hollywood

In “MaXXXine,” Ti West returns with the third installment of his X series, crafting a film that is equal parts horror and suspense, draped in the vibrant, gritty atmosphere of 1980s Hollywood. This time, we follow the indomitable Maxine Minx, played by Mia Goth, as she navigates a perilous path to fame, shadowed by a mysterious and relentless killer.

Ti West has consistently demonstrated a knack for blending period details with genre elements, and “MaXXXine” is no exception. The film captures the 1980s aesthetic with precision, from the neon lights to the VHS stores, immersing viewers in a world that feels both nostalgic and ominously unfamiliar. The choice to give the film a slightly grainy, imperfect look enhances this immersion, making it feel like a long-lost relic from the era.

The narrative picks up with Maxine, the sole survivor from the original “X” film, as she claws her way through the seedy underbelly of Hollywood, determined to leave her past behind and achieve stardom. Mia Goth delivers a powerhouse performance, portraying Maxine as a woman haunted by her past yet fiercely driven by her ambitions. Her portrayal is a delicate balance of vulnerability and resilience, capturing the essence of a character willing to sacrifice everything for her dreams.

One thing that struck me about Maxine’s journey is her relentless drive. She’s so focused on becoming a star that she’ll repress everything else—her past, fears, and ability to just chill out. I mean, I get it. Ambition is a powerful thing. But watching her sacrifice her peace of mind and body for fame made me think: maybe we all need a little balance—or at least a good therapist.

The supporting cast adds depth and intrigue to the story. As a private detective, Kevin Bacon brings a touch of seasoned charm to the film, while Giancarlo Esposito and Elizabeth Debicki provide formidable presences that elevate the stakes. Each character is well-defined, contributing to the film’s rich tapestry of suspense and dread.

“MaXXXine” excels in its ability to build tension. The first two acts are a slow burn, meticulously setting up the atmosphere and the stakes. In the third act, the film unleashes its horror with gruesome kills and nerve-wracking suspense that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. West’s direction shines here, using tight shots and clever lighting to create a palpable sense of fear and urgency.

However, the film’s resolution may leave some viewers wanting more. While intriguing, the reveal of the killer lacks the dramatic punch one might hope for. It feels more like a necessary plot point than a shocking twist, and the film’s ending, while satisfying in its own right, doesn’t quite deliver the knockout blow that fans of the series might have anticipated.

Despite this, “MaXXXine” is a worthy addition to Ti West’s trilogy. It offers a compelling character study of Maxine, exploring the lengths to which she will go to achieve her dreams. The film’s themes of ambition, sacrifice, and the haunting nature of past traumas are thoughtfully craffted into the narrative, providing a more profound meaning beneath the blood and gore.

In conclusion, “MaXXXine” may not be the strongest entry in the series, but it stands as a solid and engaging horror film. Ti West’s direction, combined with Mia Goth’s stellar performance and the film’s immersive 1980s setting, makes it a must-watch for fans of the genre. It leaves us curious about the future for Maxine and eager to see where West might take us next. In my rating system of love it, like it, or lose it, “MaXXXine” earns a firm “like it.” After how much I glowed about the film in this review, I have to say that I’m not giving it a “Love It” because I don’t think this film is necessary to the trilogy. I would have been satisfied with the previous two films if this film didn’t happen. Compared to the other films, it wasn’t as intriguing, and I found myself less curious about the characters than I had been in the last two films. It may not be fair to judge this film based on the past two, but they are too intertwined for me not to. 

If you’re a fan of the series or a horror aficionado, “MaXXXine” is worth your time. Ti West has crafted a trilogy that, while imperfect, is undeniably captivating, and “MaXXXine” is a fitting chapter in this dark, twisted tale.

Meme Review

Trailer

Review – Inside Out 2

Inside Out 2 (2024)
PG  ‧ Animated Comedy ‧ 1 Hour 36 Minutes
Written by Meg LeFauve, Dave Holstein, and Kelsey Mann
Directed by Kelsey Mann

THE CAST

Amy Poehler, Phyllis Smith, Lewis Black, Diane Lane, and Kyle MacLachlan reprising their roles from the first film with Tony Hale (replacing Bill Hader as Fear), Liza Lapira (replacing Mindy Kaling as Disgust), Maya Hawke, Ayo Edebiri, Adèle Exarchopoulos, Paul Walter Hauser, and Kensington Tallman (replacing Kaitlyn Dias as Riley) joining the cast.

THE STORY

Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust have been running a successful operation. However, when Anxiety shows up, they aren’t sure how to feel. The film takes place about a year after the original Inside Out, as the “puberty button” goes off inside of Riley, leading to the construction of a new control center and the emergence of new emotions like Anxiety, Embarrassment, Envy, and Boredom.

THE BEST

The BEST things about the film:

• Emotional Accuracy and Depth:
  • The film brilliantly captures the complexity of teenage emotions, particularly the heightened sensitivity during puberty. The portrayal of anxiety and its interaction with other emotions felt incredibly real and visceral, providing a psychologically sound depiction of a teenager’s inner world.
• Humor and Heart:
  • Inside Out 2 excels in its humor, seamlessly blending it with heartfelt moments. The jokes are well-timed, and the emotional beats are perfectly balanced, making the audience laugh and reflect simultaneously. The film engages children and adults, appealing to many viewers.
• Innovative Animation:
  • The animation in Inside Out 2 is stunning, featuring a mix of traditional and new styles that keep the visuals fresh and engaging.

THE WORST

The WORST things about the film:

• Upon my initial viewing, I found nothing to dislike about the film. It’s a flawless sequel that captures the essence of the original while adding new dimensions to the story and characters.

THE COMMENTS

• Cast Changes: One notable aspect of Inside Out 2 is the change in voice actors for certain characters. Tony Hale replaces Bill Hader as Fear, and Liza Lapira takes over for Mindy Kaling as Disgust. These changes were reportedly due to a pay dispute, where the original actors were offered significantly lower compensation than Amy Poehler, who was receiving $5 million. While it’s unfortunate that the original cast couldn’t be retained, the new actors did an excellent job, bringing their own unique flair to the characters. This casting switch did not detract from the overall enjoyment or continuity of the film.
• Audience Reception: During the special preview showing I attended, it was clear that both children and adults thoroughly enjoyed the film. The laughter, engagement, and occasional questions from the younger audience indicated that the film captivated them. This reception bodes well for its performance with family audiences, reaffirming that Inside Out 2 manages to appeal to a broad demographic.
• Emotional Impact: Inside Out 2 doesn’t have a singular villain, which makes the story unique and focuses more on internal struggles. Anxiety acts as the antagonist, representing a realistic and relatable challenge that many people, especially teenagers, face. This nuanced approach allows the film to explore emotional depth without resorting to traditional conflict, making it both innovative and impactful.
• Relatability for Parents and Teens: The film’s depiction of teenage emotional turmoil is both accurate and relatable, especially for parents who have or had teenagers. The representation of emotions like envy, embarrassment, and boredom during adolescence is portrayed with such authenticity that it resonates deeply with viewers who have experienced or are experiencing similar situations.
• Cameo Appearances: Ron Funches, one of my favorite actors and a fellow nerd, makes a delightful cameo in the film. His distinctive voice adds a fun element to the story, and it’s great to see him getting roles in major films like this. As a comedian and actor who has made a name for himself, his inclusion in Inside Out 2 is a personal highlight and adds to the film’s charm.
• Comparison to the Original: While comparisons to the original Inside Out are inevitable, viewing this sequel as a continuation rather than a direct competitor is important. Inside Out 2 builds on the foundation of the first film, expanding the emotional landscape and introducing new concepts that enrich the story. It’s a testament to Pixar’s ability to evolve and deepen their narratives while maintaining the charm and appeal that made the original a hit.
• Educational Value: Inside Out 2 offers educational insights into emotional intelligence and mental health. It provides a valuable tool for parents and educators to discuss emotions with children, helping them understand and articulate their feelings. The film’s portrayal of the prefrontal cortex development and its impact on decision-making and emotional regulation is particularly enlightening. It serves as a reminder of the complexities of growing up.

THE LESSON

Anxiety is Part of You, But Shouldn’t Control You: The film emphasizes that while anxiety can be helpful, it should not take control. It’s a part of who we are, but managing it allows our true selves to shine through.

IS IT REWATCHABLE?

Absolutely, Inside Out 2 is highly rewatchable. Its depth, humor, and engaging story make it a film that viewers will enjoy multiple times, discovering new nuances with each watch.

THE FINAL WORD

Inside Out 2 is an extraordinary sequel that delves deeper into the complexities of teenage emotions, blending humor and heartfelt moments with a psychologically accurate portrayal of anxiety and new emotions like embarrassment and envy. The innovative animation and stellar voice cast, including new members, enhance the engaging story. This film is not just fun, but also profound, making it a must-watch for families. It offers valuable lessons about managing emotions and understanding our minds, leaving a lasting emotional impact. Inside Out 2 is a beautifully crafted movie that celebrates the complexity of human emotions and is highly recommended for viewers of all ages.

THE VERDICT

My 3L system gives me the choice to Love It, Like It, or Lose It.

Inside Out 2 gets a Love It.

THE TRAILER

THE MEME REVIEW

Video Review

Audio-Only Podcast