Beneath its brewing terror, Longlegs is lonely. Its (arguably convoluted) plot drives the story while serving meaty drama and themes. Connections are drawn between ideas of family, evil, trauma, isolation, and influence. Yet, the backbone of the script is the journey within the protagonist, delivering a bittersweet arc around repression. This is solidified by Monroe's heavily internalized performance (contrasted by Cage's animation). The acting as a whole provides an intense range of layers, mannerisms, outbursts, and motivation. There's setup/payoff, acceptable exposition, light humor, and supernatural elements. Some might find it lacking cohesion but Longlegs' ambition is undeniable.
Technically, Longlegs crafts haunting tones through understated details. Sickly lighting, claustrophobic framing, and odd angles make for striking yet saddening imagery. The editing constructs cold pacing but tense momentum. Its sound is highly cerebral, utilizing stings, distortions, overlapping, and stark ambiance. Using discordant pulsing and an end credits payoff, the music is restrained yet ominous. Its cast is a solid mixture of talent and fame. The effects offer bursts of gore through prosthetics, makeup, and CGI. Its production design is psychologically motivated, creating intentionally specific settings. Overall, Longlegs succeeds because of its careful construction.
Writing: 7/10
Direction: 9/10
Cinematography: 10/10
Acting: 9/10
Editing: 9/10
Sound: 10/10
Score/Soundtrack: 9/10
Production Design: 8/10
Casting: 7/10
Effects: 8/10
Overall Score: 8.6/10
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