We are less than two months away from the most anticipated horror film of the year, “MaXXXine.” Coming off of the surprising (and massive) success of both “X” and “Pearl,” the trilogy-capper looks like it could become the biggest in the franchise yet. But there are still many trying to pinpoint exactly what style filmmaker Ti West is bringing to this film.
For those who haven’t seen “X” or “Pearl,” both films in the trilogy follow very specific styles. “X” is a gritty, dirty slasher a la “Texas Chainsaw Massacre,” whereas “Pearl” is almost a realist fantasy in the vein of “Wizard of Oz.” They are unique, to say the least. And according to a new interview with TotalFilm, “MaXXXine” is no different.
While teasing the new horror slasher, West mentioned several influences that make “MaXXXine” a unique entry in the genre. Specifically, the filmmaker talked about “a ‘Terminator’-like aesthetic to a Paul Schrader Hardcore thing to ‘Vice Squad’ to Giallo” when describing his new film.
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He added, “It’s poppy, but still grounded in more of a grittier ’80s than a shopping-mall ’80s,” West teased. “You’re seeing the glamorous side of the movie business and the seedy side of Hollywood.”
Paul Schrader? Giallo? “Terminator?” “Vice Squad?” We’ve heard plenty of filmmakers try to name beloved films and styles when describing their genre film, but none of them have been this diverse. And yet, you kinda figure that West actually was able to pull it off. No one could have imagined that “Pearl” would follow “X,” and now the trilogy ends with a neon-soaked ‘80s slasher. We’re here for it.
“MaXXXine” is set to arrive in theaters on July 5.