Michael Meyers, Hannibal Lecter, Jason Voorhees. From director Ti West and executive producer Sam Levinson comes a villain that rivals even the most ghoulish of nightmares. “Pearl” is an in depth exploration into the isolation of rural living, the suffocation of perfectionism, and the provocation of fame.

Set in early 20th century rural America, “Pearl” (played by Mia Goth) follows the late adolescence of the titular character whose fascination with the morbid and the macabre paints the town red. As German immigrants migrating to the Southern prairies of the United States during the First World War, Pearl contends with her reality tending to farm animals with her physically disabled father and emotionally negligent mother. When auditions for a traveling chorus girl come into town, Pearl sets her sights on beauty and fame beyond her means. Through this fascination, the audience experiences chaos and horror in the eyes of this deviant, compelling character.

This prequel to X (2022) was a passion project designed by Ti West and Mia Goth during the filming of the original movie. West originally pitched the film as being a “demented Disney movie.” With larger-than-life set design; Technicolor editing; and characters that invoke the likeness of Old Hollywood characters like Humphrey Bogart, it is plain to see that “Pearl” truly is the adult’s Disney movie.  

Combining techniques pioneered by Wizard of Oz and the Texas Chainsaw Massacre, this film is a refreshing take on the newly popularized psychological horror. “Pearl” juxtaposes the feminine with the macabre, subverting the stereotypes that have plagued the genre for decades. Desires of perfection and idealized standards of beauty turn into motivations for mass murder and deep, enveloping madness. 

Pearl is a character that demands your attention, even when you can’t help but look away. As she says in the final moments of the movie, “I do love a good audience!”

“Pearl” is out now in theaters everywhere. 

Note: This film contains extremely sensitive material that is not suitable for younger audiences. Viewer discretion is advised.