X (2022) Review

With the release of Ti West’s Maxxxine just around the corner, it felt high time that we covered the preceeding two films before giving our verdict on the third. So let’s start at the beginning (release dates-wise) with X.

Set in 1979, X follows a group of aspiring pornographers who venture to a secluded Texas farmhouse to shoot an adult film, only to find themselves embroiled in a nightmarish ordeal.

From the outset, West’s direction shines, capturing the essence of the era with meticulous detail. And this has been a strength of his since the opening sequence of House of the Devil (2009), which was saturated in 80’s nostalgia. With X, the cinematography mirrors the aesthetic of 1970s horror films, characterised by a grainy texture and muted color palette that evoke a sense of decay and desolation. This visual style, combined with the isolated rural setting, immediately draws intentional comparisons to Tobe Hooper’s The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974), a frequent reference point for critics. However, X is more than a mere pastiche; it uses these influences as a foundation to build a story rich in thematic depth and character development.

The film’s narrative is anchored by the magnetic Maxine Minx (Mia Goth), an ambitious adult film actress determined to escape her mundane existence and achieve stardom. She is joined by a diverse cast including Brittany Snow, Kid Cudi, Jenna Ortega, Owen Campbell, and Martin Henderson. Each of them brings a dynamic energy to the film, each character vividly realised and contributing to the story’s progression. The group’s journey to create a different kind of pornographic film is juxtaposed against the eerie presence of their elderly hosts, Howard and Pearl (played by Stephen Ure and Mia Goth in a dual role). This contrast sets the stage for the ensuing horror, as the sinister intentions of the couple are gradually revealed.

West’s script cleverly interweaves themes of aging, ambition, and repression. The character of Pearl, in particular, embodies the destructive potential of unfulfilled desires and societal constraints. Her transformation from a seemingly harmless old woman to a murderous antagonist underscores the film’s exploration of the darker aspects of human nature. The inclusion of a televangelist’s sermons blaring in the background further emphasises the moralistic and hypocritical judgment that drives the couple’s violent actions.

One of the film’s most striking aspects is its handling of explicit content. X does not shy away from graphic violence, nudity, and sex, earning its hard “R” rating. Yet, these elements are not gratuitous; they serve to heighten the tension and underscore the vulnerability of the characters. West’s unflinching direction ensures that the horror is visceral and impactful, often forcing the audience to confront the brutality head-on.
Gun blasts, severed body parts and a crocodile attack is but a small sample of what is served on screen.

Despite its familiar setup, X distinguishes itself through its well-crafted characters and sharp dialogue. The film’s humor, though dark, provides a necessary counterbalance to the horror, making the characters’ plight more relatable and their fates more poignant. The interactions among the group, particularly their discussions about their dreams and fears, add layers of depth to the narrative. This character-driven approach makes the inevitable bloodshed more affecting, as viewers have grown to care for the individuals on screen.

The film’s finale is both satisfying and thematically resonant. Maxine’s survival and ultimate confrontation with Pearl serve as a powerful commentary on the persistence of youthful ambition in the face of inevitable decline. The final act, with its shocking violence and unexpected turns, ensures that X leaves a lasting impression. It also leaves the viewer hungry for more context, something that can thankfully be satiated with the prequel, Pearl and third act, Maxxxine.

With its striking visuals, compelling characters, and a deftly handled script, X pays tribute to horror classics while carving out its unique identity.

The film is a triumph of modern horror filmmaking that pays homage to its predecessors while forging its path. Ti West’s direction, combined with a talented cast and a script that balances humor and horror, results in a film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. X is a testament to the enduring appeal of the slasher genre and a reminder of the creative potential within horror cinema. For fans of the genre, it is a must-see, offering a blend of nostalgia and innovation in perfect balance, that is rare in contemporary horror films.

Movie Rating:

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