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.

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