Here’s how Longlegs did Maika Monroe dirty

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As a dedicated gamer and film enthusiast with a particular appreciation for suspenseful thrillers, I recently had the opportunity to watch “Longlegs” in the cinema. This movie has been a topic of much conversation due to Nicolas Cage’s transformative performance as the suspected serial killer of the title. While Cage’s role is undeniably captivating, I found myself drawn to a different perspective: that of Maika Monroe‘s FBI agent, Lee Harker.

Note: major Longlegs spoilers follow

The film “Longlegs” is fantastic, particularly for those who appreciate dimly lit spaces adorned with pine panels. Have you had a chance to watch it? If not, I would suggest holding off for the moment, as we’re about to reveal its surprising finale.

In the discussion preceding, throughout, and following the screening of the film, the large majority of comments have justifiably focused on Nicolas Cage’s exceptional portrayal as the suspected serial killer. This acting display is truly awe-inspiring and we wouldn’t dream of diminishing its impact in any way.

Although some people have accused Cage and director Oz Perkins of delivering exaggerated or attention-seeking performances, we believe they skillfully tailored their acting to fit the movie’s requirements. Contrary to popular belief, it is not an over-the-top spectacle but rather a meticulously executed portrayal based on a detailed instruction.

As a gamer, I’ve encountered a similar issue in the game I recently played. The character development for Maika Monroe’s FBI agent, Lee Harker, felt underwhelming and overshadowed by other elements in the plot. It’s not a criticism per se, but rather an observation that left me wanting more depth and focus on her character.

An understated performance by a movie’s main character can be just as impactful as an extravagant one. The art of doing nothing with great effect is not to be underestimated. From Gary Cooper to Harrison Ford, there is a rich history of actors who have mastered the subtle and still portrayal.

Although I’ve mentioned before that Lee Harker’s psychic/intuitive agent plays an important role in contrasting Cage’s dominant antagonist, she is nearly devoid of distinct characteristics herself.

Monroe is an excellent actor, as shown in films like “The Guest,” “Watcher,” and “It Follows.” However, the character of Harker doesn’t have much background information given until the end of the story for narrative reasons. Monroe’s performance is not being criticized; instead, the lack of depth in her character’s backstory is due to the plot requirements.

Her sole passion lies in solving the case, with nothing else holding her attention. Regarding personal connections, she solely depends on Agent Carter, who serves as both mentor and caretaker due to her unyielding quirkiness and lack of emotional depth.

I rarely share my thoughts or feelings, focusing more on the game itself and its abstract concepts. I don’t hold a strong affection for any specific characters or objects within it. My primary goal is to gather clues and progress through the game with minimal interaction with others.

Monroe portrays her character as having traits consistent with being on the autism spectrum, a fitting interpretation given how the role was crafted. The character seems indifferent to social engagements, shuns direct eye contact, becomes deeply engrossed in codes and intricate systems, and demonstrates an extraordinary talent for recognizing patterns. Monroe drew inspiration for her portrayal from Lisbeth Salander in “The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo.”

As a gamer, I can say that the choice is on point and neurodivergent commentators have pointed out some real depth in her character development. In one scene, Carter’s daughter invites Lee to her birthday party. My initial reaction might be to find it funny how Lee reacts literally and physically disengages, but upon reflection, this moment becomes crucial in making us connect with her on a deeper level.

But that one moment is all our heroine gets.

As a gamer, I can tell you that her character is shrouded in mystery throughout the movie. Her mother made a deal with Satan’s ugly henchman, allowing him to reside in their basement for decades. His supernatural abilities erased Lee’s memories of his presence. Consequently, she is merely a prop in the narrative, serving as an object for the audience to observe as the story unfolds.

The value of Harker’s brilliant problem-solving skills and dedication is undermined by the unexpected revelation. The script subtly suggests that cracking the case may not be as significant as it seems, through brief mentions of a Zodiac-like code and an emphasis on Harker’s supposed psychic abilities. However, when we learn that Beelzebub was behind it all along, Harker’s sense of control and autonomy is effectively stripped away.

As someone who has spent years immersed in the world of literature and storytelling, I find the given text intriguing in its use of paraphrasing to convey complex narrative shifts. In the original passage, we have three distinct statements about a character named She: she doesn’t catch Longlegs, she doesn’t get to kill him, and she doesn’t solve the mystery. These statements imply that She is an active agent in her own story but ultimately powerless against certain forces beyond her control.

In the final moments, all she’s left with is the task of shattering the doll’s doll’s head and rescuing Carter’s daughter – a deed for which we are grateful.

The movie’s interpretation by some includes the idea that it symbolizes child abuse: Lee’s mother unwittingly invites a danger into their home, and Lee’s conduct as an adult – characterized by suppressed memories and symptoms similar to PTSD – aligns with this theme.

Oz Perkins has openly stated that his film prioritizes atmosphere above all else. He revealed that his main focus in the storytelling was the secrets parents keep hidden from their children and the resulting consequences. (It is known that his father, Anthony Perkins who acted in Psycho, was a gay man who underwent ‘conversion therapy’ in hiding.)

As a film critic with over two decades of experience under my belt, I’ve seen countless films that leave audiences puzzled and yearning for more. But none have left me as perplexed as this one, where the enigmatic Longlegs looms large offscreen, casting an oppressive magnetic presence that leaves a void in the first two acts.

On a second look, it might be an entirely new experience that will make us retract our previous opinions. We’re excited to discover the truth.

Longlegs is available to watch in cinemas now.

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2024-07-17 17:50