MaXXXine struggles to unite its worthy pieces. Its plot parallels showbusiness and a serial murderer, critiquing media exploitation and highlighting how female sexuality is both objectified and suppressed. However, the stagnant drama holds these elements back. Although internal conflicts (PTSD and obsession) are started, they don't result in an arc. This, in turn, mutes the themes. Still, the script offers defined characters, witty dialogue, meta references, and setup/payoff (though its mystery reveal is underwhelming). Plus, the acting injects confidence, intensity, layers, and motivation despite the fairly confining material. Overall, MaXXXine muddles its attempts at substance.
Technically, MaXXXine establishes a heightened aesthetic. Its imagery is consistently sleek. Flashy montages, split screens, intercuts, inserts, and action compensate for the editing's spotty momentum. Its sound is vivid with smash cuts, risers, match cuts, silence, stings, violence, and emphasis. The music sets moods through apt needle drops, synths, and saxophones. Its production design creates the LA underbelly of that era. Despite limited star power, the cast has superb fit and solid depth. Its effects add prosthetics, makeup, stunts, and bloody gore (including a glorious head explosion). In conclusion, MaXXXine's vibrant style is slightly less than the sum of its parts.
Writing: 6/10
Direction: 8/10
Cinematography: 9/10
Acting: 7/10
Editing: 8/10
Sound: 9/10
Score/Soundtrack: 9/10
Production Design: 8/10
Casting: 7/10
Effects: 8/10
Overall Score: 7.9/10
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