Ti West's MaXXXine, the final installment in the trilogy that began with X and Pearl, takes us to the glitzy, perilous world of 1980s Hollywood. Following the harrowing events at the farmhouse in X, Maxine Minx, portrayed by Mia Goth, is now a successful adult film star with dreams of mainstream stardom. As she navigates her career in Hollywood, a shadowy killer reminiscent of the infamous Night Stalker begins targeting starlets, intertwining her ascent to fame with a trail of blood.
From the outset, MaXXXine plunges viewers into a richly detailed 1985, capturing the era's essence through meticulous set designs and a stellar soundtrack featuring iconic '80s tracks from Laura Branigan, ZZ Top, Animotion, and more. The film's opening, marked by a Bette Davis quote, sets a nostalgic tone enhancing its retro feel.
Mia Goth's performance as Maxine is a highlight, showcasing her character's evolution from a survivor of a brutal massacre to a confident and ambitious actress on the brink of Hollywood success. Elizabeth Debicki’s portrayal of a no-nonsense British filmmaker adds depth and complexity, further elevated by a star-studded supporting cast, including Kevin Bacon and Giancarlo Esposito. These performances, coupled with Ti West's direction, deliver a narrative that is both a tribute to and a critique of the Hollywood dream.
The film excels in its visual and auditory elements, with perfectly curated b-roll and newsreels that immerse the audience in the era. The authenticity of the setting, down to the McDonald's bags and old Coke cans, is impressive. Ti West’s commitment to diversity in casting is apparent, creating a world that feels both vibrant and inclusive without seeming forced. In many ways, MaXXXine does for movies what Grand Theft Auto: Vice City did for video games, capturing the essence of the '80s in a way that feels both nostalgic and fresh.
However, MaXXXine is not without its flaws. While it offers numerous twists and turns, some moments feel a bit clumsy, particularly a shootout scene that disrupts the otherwise consistent tone of the franchise. Additionally, the film's reliance on the previous entries, especially X, means it doesn't stand as well on its own. Fans of the trilogy will appreciate the callbacks and continuity, but newcomers might find themselves a bit lost.
The practical effects are top-tier, delivering the visceral horror fans expect, but the ending feels rushed, leaving some viewers dissatisfied. Despite this, the film’s homage to slasher classics and its meticulous attention to '80s aesthetics make it a visual feast.
While MaXXXine promises an unforgettable theater experience with its immersive visuals and captivating sound, some viewers may prefer the intimacy of home viewing. During my screening, the audience's frequent laughter and vocal reactions occasionally detracted from the film's atmosphere. Understanding a joke is one thing, but overpowering the theater with laughter is another.
In conclusion, MaXXXine is a thrilling ride through '80s Hollywood, filled with nostalgia, horror, and ambition. It may not be the strongest entry in the trilogy, but it serves as a fitting end to Maxine Minx's journey. Watch out, Harley Quinn—this Halloween, Maxine is poised to reign as the queen of costumes for 2024.
Jessie Hobson