Pearl (2022) Review: A Chilling Psychological Horror Masterpiece
A prequel to Ti West's slasher X, Pearl is a psychological horror that delves into the twisted mind of its titular character, a young woman consumed by isolation, loneliness, and a desperate yearning for
youth and beauty.**
Set in 1918 on an isolated Texas farm, Pearl follows the life of a young woman (Mia Goth) who cares for her domineering, wheelchair-bound mother (Ruth Wilson) while tending to the farm's chores. Pearl's dreams of a glamorous life beyond the farm's confines are fueled by her obsession with the movies, particularly those featuring alluring dancers and flappers.
As Pearl's frustrations and desires intensify, she begins to lash out at those around her, including her mother and a handsome drifter (Charlie McDermott) who arrives at the farm seeking work. Pearl's descent into madness is marked by increasingly violent acts, as she seeks to preserve her youthful beauty and escape the drudgery of her isolated existence.*
Mia Goth delivers a tour-de-force performance as Pearl, capturing the character's complex mix of vulnerability, rage, and desperation.
Goth's portrayal is both haunting and sympathetic, making Pearl a truly unforgettable character.* Director Ti West masterfully crafts a visually stunning and atmospheric film, using vibrant colors and a dreamy aesthetic to contrast with the film's dark and disturbing subject matter.** West's direction is both subtle and unsettling, creating a palpable sense of dread that lingers long after the credits roll.
Pearl is a slow-burning
psychological horror that will stay with you long after the final scene.** The film's exploration of themes of isolation, loneliness, and the destructive power of obsession is both disturbing and thought-provoking.
If you're a fan of psychological horror, Pearl is a must-see.** Mia Goth's stunning performance and Ti West's masterful direction make this film a truly chilling and unforgettable experience.
Here are some additional thoughts on the film:
Pearl is a worthy prequel to X, expanding on the themes and characters of the first film in a satisfying way.
The film's use of Technicolor is both visually striking and thematically significant, adding to the film's sense of dreamlike unreality.
* Pearl is a disturbing but ultimately fascinating exploration of the dark side of the human psyche.
Overall, Pearl is a must-see for fans of psychological horror. Mia Goth's stunning performance and Ti West's masterful direction make this film a truly chilling and unforgettable experience.**
I hope this review is helpful! Please let me know if you have any other questions.
