Nicolas Cage's latest film, “Longlegs,” has captivated audiences with its eerie atmosphere and Cage's unhinged portrayal of the titular character. The horror-thriller, now in cinemas, has already made waves, projected to gross $20-23 million in its opening weekend—a record for distributor NEON, especially impressive given its modest budget of under $10 million.
Cage's transformation into the elusive Satanic serial killer known as Longlegs is nothing short of mesmerizing. In a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly (EW), Cage revealed that the character's chilling presence was inspired by a vivid childhood memory. At just two years old, he was startled by the sight of his late mother, Joy Vogelsang, in Noxzema cold cream. The image of her face, suddenly turning towards him, ghostly white, left a lasting impression that Cage channeled into his performance.
This unsettling memory is just one layer of the character's complexity. Longlegs, described by Cage as having a peculiar connection to the color white, is an androgynous figure haunted by inner demons. Cage also drew inspiration from his mother's battle with schizophrenia and severe depression, infusing the character with a sense of tragic inevitability. He sees Longlegs as a person tormented by the voices inside him, making the killer's actions both horrifying and pitiable.
Adding to the character's unique attributes, Cage mentioned being influenced by a figure from Fellini's “Juliet and the Spirits,” further highlighting the film's blend of horror and surrealism.
Directed by Oz Perkins, “Longlegs” features a strong cast and crew that contributes to its eerie ambiance and psychological depth. With Cage's standout performance and a compelling storyline, “Longlegs” is a must-see for horror enthusiasts and fans of character-driven thrillers alike.
So, if you're looking for a film that combines psychological horror with a deeply personal performance, “Longlegs” should be at the top of your list. Nicolas Cage's portrayal of a tragic, haunted killer will leave you both terrified and mesmerized.
