`Longlegs`: a horror that divided critics and audiences

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Every year, a film is released that critics call almost a "new standard of horror." In 2024, that film became "Longlegs" directed by Oz Perkins. But while critics were thrilled with this picture, the audience rating was more modest. So what's the matter? Let's figure it out.

An Enigmatic Thriller That Keeps You Hooked

The film's plot revolves around FBI agent Lee Harker ( ), who is assigned to investigate a series of wild, almost ritualistic murders. The deeper she delves into the case, the more she is convinced that the perpetrator is not playing by the usual rules—there are too many oddities in this story that cannot be explained rationally.

Oz Perkins has long established himself as a master of atmospheric horror—his 'Gretel & Hansel' plunged into a dark fairy tale, while 'I Am the Pretty Thing That Lives in the House' explored the fear of solitude. The director's style is easily recognizable: minimal dialogue, a slow build-up of tension, and a refusal of cheap jump scares. In 'Longlegs,' Perkins has pushed this concept to the limit, creating a hypnotic horror that is hard to tear away from.
Maika Monroe in a white shirt with an FBI badge around her neck, stands with a terrified expression against the wall, surrounded by splatters of blood
Still from "Longlegs"
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How to Turn Horror into a Viral Phenomenon

Long before its premiere in July 2024, "Longlegs" became a hot topic of discussion. This is because, we believe at zoomboola.com, that the Neon film studio launched one of the most intriguing advertising campaigns in recent years, reminiscent of the promotional tactics for "The Blair Witch Project" (1999).

"The studio representatives asked me at the very beginning: 'Can we have a little fun?' And I replied, 'Isn't that what we're here for? Go ahead!'" — says the director of the film.

Since the beginning of 2024, unsettling images and videos began appearing online, including a nun in a black robe and a wall with a mysterious message. There was no mention of the film's title or the studio's logo. Social media reactions were something like: "I don't know what's happening, but I love it."

Later, the campaign reached a new level: billboards in Los Angeles featured a phone number with no captions or explanations. Those who dared to dial it heard the voice of (one of the leading roles) on the other end, who, in a mysterious tone, congratulated them on their birthday. This was both confusing and intriguing — viewers were puzzled about how it was related to the film, and the internet was filled with guesses and theories.
Advertising billboard with a black background and red numbers
Advertisement for the film "Longlegs" in Los Angeles
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The tactic paid off handsomely — the audience's curiosity was piqued to the maximum. In July, eager viewers rushed to theaters to be the first to see the mysterious film before it became mainstream.

As a result, the film earned $22.4 million in its first weekend, becoming the highest-grossing release in Neon studio's history. By the end of its run, its earnings reached an impressive $126.9 million. Considering the horror's budget did not exceed $10 million, this success once again confirmed: smart marketing works wonders.

Cage in a Spine-Chilling Role

The name Nicolas Cage in the credits already hints at something unusual, but in this film, he has outdone himself. In "Longlegs," the actor appears in such a sinister role that even his longtime fans admit: it's truly creepy.

We won't reveal the details—spoilers will ruin the effect, but one thing is clear: Cage has so immersed himself in the role that watching him is both frightening and mesmerizing.
Actor Nicolas Cage on a black and red background
Nicolas Cage
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"Thanks to Nicolas Cage, 'Longlegs' has become a chilling, brilliant work that will delight genre fans for many years," writes Phil de Semlyen for Time Out.

A Film That Made Critics Tremble with Fear

On Rotten Tomatoes, "Longlegs" has an 86% "freshness" rating, indicating the film's high quality and powerful impact. Many critics compare Perkins' work to "The Silence of the Lambs" and "Seven," noting its psychological effect and oppressive atmosphere.

"The film mixes too many elements—criminal investigation, occult mystery, mind manipulation, satanic worship, creepy dolls, a Faustian bargain, a 'nun' who isn't listed in any monastery. Yet, 'Longlegs' is Perkins' most fully realized and striking film to date," writes David Rooney for The Hollywood Reporter.

What About the Audience? Opinions Are Divided

On IMDb, the film has only 6.6 out of 10 — not exactly the rating you'd expect from "the scariest horror of the year." Opinions are split: some call "Longlegs" stylish and powerful ("A nerve-wracking, intense, mind-bending film!"), while others find it drawn-out and overrated.
LONGLEGS | Official Trailer
The cast also sparked debate. Maika Monroe was predicted to win an "Oscar," with critics noting that her character experiences fear to the core, while Cage was criticized for overacting.

Still, most viewers agreed on one thing: the marketing campaign gave a false impression of the film. Not everyone saw the promised shocking horror in "Longlegs." Many considered Perkins' film more of a typical thriller rather than pure fear. "The final result wasn't bad at all, just... It wasn't the horror it was made out to be," writes one reviewer on IMDb.

Is It Worth Watching?

Despite mixed reviews, "Longlegs" definitely deserves attention. It's not a jump-scare horror but an atmospheric immersion where terror grows through music, lighting, strange angles, and the feeling that something sinister is watching you from the darkness. If you enjoy stylish thrillers with elements of the occult, "Longlegs" is definitely worth adding to your watchlist.

Are you ready to see how scary this movie is? Or maybe you've already watched it? Share your thoughts in the comments!