Osgood Perkins, known for his uniquely dark and unsettling approach to horror in films like The Blackcoat’s Daughter and Gretel & Hansel, is set to terrify audiences once again with his latest project, Longlegs. Scheduled for release on July 12, 2024, by Neon, the film stars Maika Monroe, Nicolas Cage, Alicia Witt, and Blair Underwood in a story that mixes psychological thriller elements with a dash of the occult.
Just last month,Longlegs‘ marketing strategy took an intriguing turn when the studio released a cryptic teaser on its X (formerly Twitter) account, initially leaving fans puzzled about which film it was promoting. The teaser featured a deeply unsettling family photo gradually zooming in, accompanied by a distorted 911 call. The obscured audio hinted at a sinister narrative, with phrases like “my daughter” and “that’s not my daughter” chillingly whispered before transitioning to a crime scene still image, then to mysterious symbols.
This enigmatic presentation led to speculation that it was related to another film, Cuckoo, but eagle-eyed fans decoded the symbols, revealing them to spell out Longlegs. This clever use of mystery and audience engagement has significantly heightened anticipation, showcasing the film’s unique approach to capturing viewer interest even before full details on the film are unveiled.
The Plot of Longlegs
Longlegs follows Lee Harker (Maika Monroe), a new FBI agent, as she delves into the complex investigation of a serial killer, portrayed by Nicolas Cage. The case takes a turn towards the supernatural, unearthing evidence linked to the occult and revealing a personal connection between Harker and the killer. This connection forces Harker into a race against time to prevent the killer from claiming the lives of another innocent family.
The film is said to be in the vein of classic Hollywood psychological thrillers, promising to deliver a fresh yet nostalgic cinematic experience. With a plot that intricately weaves together the tension of a serial killer chase and the eerie allure of occult mysteries, Longlegs aims to stand out in the horror genre.
The Team Behind Longlegs
Production of Longlegs kicked off in Vancouver, British Columbia, with principal photography running from January 16 to February 23, 2023. Osgood Perkins not only directs but also penned the script, further solidifying his creative vision throughout the project. Nicolas Cage is pulling double duty as both the lead antagonist and a producer under his Saturn Films banner, along with a team of producers known for their work in both horror and beyond.
With a cast that includes horror veteran Maika Monroe, who has starred in notable films like It Follows and The Guest, and Nicolas Cage, known for his eclectic and powerful performances, Longlegs is gearing up to be a must-see for horror fans. The inclusion of Alicia Witt and Blair Underwood adds further depth to an already compelling lineup, promising strong performances across the board.
Longleg Teasers
The film’s marketing campaign has intrigued audiences with its cryptic teasers and posters, hinting at the chilling atmosphere and mysterious plot that awaits. One particular teaser has drawn attention for its exploration of the Nine Circles of Hell, suggesting that Longlegs will delve deep into themes of sin, punishment, and redemption, all while maintaining a suspenseful narrative.
As the release date approaches, anticipation for Longlegs continues to build. Its blend of classic thriller elements with modern horror sensibilities, combined with Perkins’ distinct directorial style, sets the stage for a film that aims to captivate and terrify in equal measure. Keep an eye out for more updates as one of the year’s most anticipated horror films draws closer to unveiling its dark secrets to the world.
Are you stoked for Longlegs? Kick off a conversation in the Nightmare on Film Street Discord Commynity!
