<em>'Pearl'</em> doesn't quite hit as well as <em>'X'</em>, though it has enough about it to still be suitably enjoyable. It did lose steam for me the longer it went on and there aren't many moments to remember, tbh I personally would've preferred more of older Pearl than younger Pearl. Still, Mia Goth continues to impress. Tandi Wright stands out too, even if it certainly is Goth's movie. David Corenswet is there too, I wonder what that guy is up to nowadays. The film, like its predecessor, remains a treat visually, the distinctive eras of each flick are definite plus points. A good film, all the same. This and that previous release are quite different, so it's little surprise that there is one that I 'only' like and one that I love. Now to see where <em>'MaXXXine'</em> falls.

Pearl (2022) is a visually striking psychological horror film that takes a unique approach to storytelling. Set in the 1920s, the movie immediately stands out with its vibrant, almost dreamlike cinematography that contrasts with its dark themes. The production design is meticulous, capturing the era’s aesthetic with rich colors and a polished, old-Hollywood feel. While the plot starts off slow, especially in the first act and early second, it gradually picks up, pulling you deeper into the protagonist's unsettling world. Ti West's direction is methodical, letting tension simmer rather than relying on cheap scares, which works well for the film's psychological depth. Mia Goth carries the entire movie with an outstanding performance, making Pearl one of the most compelling horror characters in recent years. Her ability to shift between innocence and madness is captivating, and she brings an emotional weight that elevates the script. The dialogue feels natural yet eerie, adding to the film’s unease. The score is another highlight, blending classic orchestral sounds with unsettling undertones that perfectly match the film’s descent into darkness. While it may not be as fast-paced as some horror films, Pearl delivers a slow-burn psychological experience that lingers long after the credits roll.

I will be doing a combined review for the two films, "X" and "Pearl." Upon seeing the high ratings given by both the general public and critics to these movies, I am left puzzled about what truly makes a good film. Let's start with "X," a movie that I found to be absolutely terrible. The film revolves around pornography rather than a cohesive storyline, resulting in a disjointed and atrocious viewing experience. The cinematography, acting, storytelling, and writing were all subpar, yet critics inexplicably praised it. The attempt to elevate the film with Jenna Ortega fell short, as she had minimal screen time amidst excessive male and adult nudity, making it unsuitable for general viewing. This is a movie best watched in private, not recommended by me at all. Moving on to "Pearl," I was equally disappointed as it also relied heavily on sexual themes. The film took a bizarre turn, culminating in a scene that made me walk out of the theater in disbelief. It's baffling to see these films receive acclaim, especially when performances like Mia Goth's are lacking. It seems that the current focus is on titillation rather than genuine storytelling. As we await the verdict on the third film, it appears that the world may be more interested in gratification than meaningful narratives.