“MaXXXine” is the third installment in the “X” series, and it follows the character Maxine Minx (played by Mia Goth). Released in July 2024, the movie picks up with Maxine as she rises in Hollywood, inching closer to her lifelong dream of becoming a star. her sinister past isn’t as far behind as she thought when a string of mysterious murders haunts Hollywood.
A large part of what makes the “X” series so popular is that each film follows an unhinged female character that isn’t often portrayed in the media. Minx is a refreshing female character, unlike anything I’ve ever watched. Minx wants fame, and she will stop at nothing to achieve it. There isn’t a thing she wouldn’t do to reach her goals, no matter how gruesome. That isn’t a role women often get to play in movies, and seeing it taken to the extreme makes the film all the more polarizing.
My favorite aspect of the movie is its striking aesthetics and unique vibe. “MaXXXine” captures Hollywood in a captivating way, showcasing both its glamorous facade and the underlying seediness beneath. The 80s imagery adds a fun, nostalgic touch, with bold hairstyles and visually intriguing makeup and costumes. Minx’s look, in particular, stood out to me—her makeup was absolutely mesmerizing throughout the film. Goth, with her striking beauty, embodies Maxine flawlessly, bringing the character to life in a way that feels both authentic and compelling.
Goth has proven herself as an actor time and time again throughout the trilogy, giving emotionally intense performances perfect for a horror film. It’s especially impressive that she plays multiple characters throughout the trilogy, showcasing her range as an actress. After these films, I see Mia Goth becoming a household name in the horror genre.
The plot of “MaXXXine” felt more watered down than its counterparts, partially because the plot is a murder mystery rather than just a thriller like the first two movies. The beauty of the first two films is the simplicity of the plots; we get to spend time with the characters and be curious about what’s going on. In contrast, “MaXXXine” is gimmicky and less intentional; the plot feels rushed and more of an afterthought.
West’s trilogy has been extremely impactful to the horror genre and marks the next generation of horror films. The series has captured the attention of Gen Z in particular for its strong female characters, interesting aesthetic, amazing acting, and attention to detail.
