Osgood Perkins’ newest horror film, Longlegs, has become a massive hit at the box office, breaking records within weeks of its release. Starring Nicholas Cage and Maika Monroe, the film has been praised for its blending of high art and anxiety, creating a nightmarish experience for viewers. But what is it about this film that leaves audiences so unsettled? By analyzing Longlegs through a psychological lens, we can begin to understand the method behind Perkins’ madness and why the film is so profoundly disturbing.
One element that contributes to the unsettling nature of Longlegs is the Uncanny Valley effect created by the character’s appearance. Nicholas Cage’s portrayal of the satanic doll-maker, with his pale, lumpy, and botched face, strikes a dissonance that leaves viewers uncomfortable. The concept of the Uncanny Valley, where objects or characters that look almost but not quite human unsettle us, comes into play, as our minds struggle to reconcile what we see with what we believe, leading to a sense of unease.
In a stroke of genius, Perkins placed a heart-rate monitor on Maika Monroe during her first encounter with Cage as Longlegs. Monroe experienced a visceral reaction to seeing Cage in character, with her heart rate spiking to over double its resting rate. This authentic fear captured on screen creates a sense of realism that blurs the line between fiction and reality, allowing viewers to share in the terror experienced by the characters on screen. Research suggests that we can mirror fear as easily as we mirror other emotions, amplifying the impact of the horror on the audience.
Perkins also utilizes subliminal imagery in Longlegs to disturb viewers on a subconscious level. Psychologists have found that threatening subliminal images can induce anxiety in viewers, even if they are not consciously aware of them. The film contains multiple shots in which the Devil is hidden, designed to be processed subconsciously by the audience. This subtle manipulation creates a pervasive sense of paranoia that lingers long after the film has ended, adding to the overall chilling experience of Longlegs.
The combination of overt horror and covert trickery in Perkins’ direction ensures that fear and anxiety permeate every frame of Longlegs. The use of subliminal messaging, along with the genuine terror captured in the performances, creates a haunting experience that stays with viewers long after the credits roll. Perkins’ calculated manipulation of psychological phenomena adds depth to the film, making it more than just a typical horror movie but a truly immersive and disturbing experience.
Overall, Longlegs has been a success not just for its scares but for its psychological depth and innovative techniques. By exploring themes of the Uncanny Valley, genuine terror, and subliminal imagery, Osgood Perkins has crafted a film that resonates with audiences on a deeper level. As viewers continue to be captivated by the horrors of Longlegs, it is clear that Perkins has tapped into something truly unsettling and unforgettable with his latest masterpiece.
