Photo by MaXXXine: A Bloody Good Time in the Sleazy World of 80s Erotic Thrillers
Mia Goth is back, and this time she’s bringing the heat in MaXXXine, a wildly entertaining horror film that’s loaded with pop culture treats. The film picks up six years after the Texas Porn Film Massacre, with Maxine living in Hollywood and obsessed with becoming famous. Clad in denim and wearing emotional armor made of self-confidence combined with cynicism and snark, Maxine is hell-bent on making the transition from adult film actress to mainstream star.
The city of dreams, where Maxine hopes to make it big.
As Maxine navigates the cutthroat world of Hollywood, she lands an audition for the lead in The Puritan 2, a Satanic possession horror thriller directed by the ice-cool and equally ambitious Liz Bender (Elizabeth Debicki). With her sights set on stardom, Maxine will stop at nothing to get what she wants, even if it means immersing herself in the sleazy world of 80s erotic thrillers.
“I’m not just a porn star, I’m a movie star,” Maxine declares, and you can’t help but believe her.
The film is a love letter to the excesses of 80s cinema, with nods to classics like St. Elmo’s Fire, Peeping Tom, Hardcore, and Body Double. The attention to detail is impressive, from the movie marquees to the Walk of Fame, where a glimpse of early Vamp queen Theda Bara’s star is a nice touch.
The original Vamp queen, Theda Bara.
MaXXXine is a bloody good time, with plenty of gore and suspense to keep horror fans on the edge of their seats. But it’s also a commentary on the objectification of women in the entertainment industry, and the ways in which they’re forced to navigate a system that’s stacked against them.
Mia Goth shines as Maxine, a complex and multifaceted character.
With its over-the-top action sequences, witty one-liners, and a standout performance from Mia Goth, MaXXXine is a must-see for fans of horror and 80s cinema. So grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the ride.
