A Love Letter to ’70s Horror with Divided Audiences

 

Release date: 18 March 2022 (USA)
Genre: Horror/Slasher
Director: Ti West
Cinematographer: Eliot Rockett
Budget: $1 million USD
Box office: $15,1 million USD

 

I will not accept a life I do not deserve – Maxine

 

5 min read

 

The year 2022 brought us a film that’s unlike anything we’ve seen before, a truly unique experience that left me with mixed emotions and ultimately led me to a rating of 5 out of 10 stars. “X,” directed by the one and only Ti West, takes us on a wild journey, delivering a back-to-basics slasher story that pits porn stars against elderly killers. It’s a bold departure from the usual conventions of the genre, and it’s precisely this audacity that gives the film its distinctive charm.

The setting is 1979, a time when disco reigned supreme, and filmmaking was a far cry from today’s digital extravaganzas. In this bygone era, “X” introduces us to a group of young filmmakers with dreams of making an adult film in the heart of rural Texas. However, as you might imagine, things don’t go as planned. Their elderly, reclusive hosts catch them in the act, and suddenly, the cast finds themselves in a deadly struggle for survival. The film boasts a talented ensemble cast including Mia Goth, Jenna Ortega, Martin Henderson, Brittany Snow, and Owen Campbell, who do their best to breathe life into their characters.

“X” is a movie that manages to transport us back to the 1970s, a time when horror was characterized by a unique aesthetic and a sense of creative freedom that the genre sometimes lacks today. Ti West, through his masterful direction, proves that even a “dirty movie” can be a canvas for artistic expression. He skillfully blends nostalgia with a breath of fresh air, allowing us to revel in the style of ’70s horror while infusing it with a contemporary edge. This combination of the old and the new is the film’s greatest strength, as it takes us on a journey where we can appreciate the roots of horror while being entertained by a fresh perspective.

 

 

However, the film isn’t without its quirks. “X” is unapologetically obsessed with the human body, teasing us with nudity before subjecting us to gruesome violence. This unique focus is sure to divide audiences. Some will appreciate the film’s daring approach, while others may find it off-putting. It’s a raw and unfiltered experience, not for the faint of heart, but that’s what makes it so intriguing. It dares to push the boundaries, refusing to adhere to the norms of a more traditional horror movie. In doing so, it challenges our preconceived notions about what a horror film can be.

Critics have lauded “X” for its accomplished sleaze and its dedication to capturing the essence of the 1970s era. It’s crass, it’s ghastly, and it revels in its unapologetic homage to that period. The premise, which combines the sensationalist slasher genre with elements of X-rated cinema, is executed with boldness and audacity. Ti West doesn’t shy away from the provocative, making sure that every scene is loaded with tension and unpredictability. The film’s dedication to maintaining the essence of the era is commendable, and it does so with a devil-may-care attitude.

Yet, for all its uniqueness and boundary-pushing, “X” sometimes stumbles. It oscillates between moments of brilliance and self-satisfaction, leaving the audience in a state of confusion. It’s clear that the film doesn’t always take itself seriously, which can be seen as both a strength and a weakness. While it keeps you guessing, it might also leave you feeling like the film is not sure of its own identity. The uneven pacing and occasional tonal shifts can be jarring, detracting from the overall experience.

 

 

“X” is a film that takes risks and offers a fresh perspective on the classic slasher formula. It’s far from the conventional, and it’s sure to leave an impression on those who are willing to embrace its unique qualities. It’s a film that takes you on a wild ride, filled with twists and turns, where you never quite know what’s coming next. Ti West deserves credit for his audacious return to the horror genre, marking a spot on the map that showcases his roots and his love for the macabre.

Despite its mixed reception and the polarizing nature of its content, “X” is undeniably a conversation starter. It’s a film that challenges our preconceived notions about horror, about the past, and about the boundaries of cinematic storytelling. Whether it’s your cup of tea or not, “X” is an experience that you won’t easily forget. So, if you’re up for a cinematic rollercoaster ride through a bygone era with a modern twist, “X” might just be the ticket you’re looking for. Just be prepared for the unexpected, and hold on tight as you delve into this unique, controversial, and undeniably daring creation.

 

My Rating: 5/10