*SPOILERS FOR NEW FILM AHEAD*
Prior to studying horror in class, I knew that horror films had elements of suspense, usually have jump-scares, feature eerie sounds and music to create tension and fear, typically have some sort of “monster” or “villain,” are surrounded by themes of death, and often use lighting to their advantage to further develop a scary scene. Considering that the brand new film “Longlegs” is filled with a strong mystery and suspense element, the visual techniques helped convey that story marvelously. The film featured many box-shaped lighting techniques and set designs to show when the film’s protagonist had not yet understood what was going on regarding the antagonists’ crimes and motives or actions, she was “boxed in.” Throughout the story, more and more of the mystery is revealed and the cinematography and story makes you feel like you’re in the film with the protagonist. The film had some of the most thought through cinematography I’d ever seen from a horror film, every set piece was set methodically which creates tension and a sense of eerie off-ness in one’s chest. It felt like no piece was “out of place” which feels so wrong when it comes to spaces you may be standing in.
This screengrab conveys the moments you’re being let into the plot twist of the film. There isn’t one killer, but rather two, and not only are there multiple killers besides the twisted-looking character named Longlegs (played by Nicholas Cage) but the second killer is someone the protagonist was incredibly close with. The camera-work is now shaken and irregular rather than precise as it had been up until the revealing scenes which shows the panic that the main character is feeling in those moments.
Overall, the film showed exactly what I always knew a horror movie was but with unexpected elements such as almost Wes Anderson-like camera movements and precision. Blood was commonly used but never over-used which allowed for the gruesome moments to make you feel uneasy every time. I rarely feel creeped out by horror films but the director and production team of this film allowed me to feel tension with the character, have that sense of being “boxed in,” and had me wondering what was going to happen the entire time.
Taryn
I thoroughly enjoyed your analysis, especially about the feeling of being “boxed in.” I recently saw this film and my reaction was very similar to yours. The blood was tasteful, but the overlying fear came from the eerie feeling and anticipation that runs throughout the film. It is clear that something is deeply wrong, but the viewer doesn’t quite understand. You adequately addressed the questions and provided a valuable analysis of this film. Thank you-Taryn King
Isabel White
Your analysis of the Film Long Legs presents a thoughtful and compelling perspective on how its visual techniques, story elements and cinematography contribute to its effectiveness as a horror film. Your attention to the use of box-shaped lighting and set design as a metaphor for the protagonist’s mental state is insightful and shows a nuanced understanding of how visual elements can deepen a storyline. The mention of the shaky camera work during the reveal scene is a great observation that ties the technical aspect of cinematography to the emotional state of the character and represents everything falling apart for the protagonist. Your comment on the restrained use of blood is a strong point, emphasizing how horror films do not need gore, but gore can enhance the film rather than overwhelm it. An example of blood and gore being overwhelming to a film could be Evil Dead Rise (2023), where gore is the focal point of the horror throughout the film. In comparison to Longlegs where the uneasy mystery plot creates more tension and fear. This speaks to a deeper understanding of how horror can balance shock with subtly. While you address visual and technical aspects effectively, you could also dive deeper into the theme of the film of trust and betrayal. Overall your analysis is a successful one that provides everything asked for.