MaXXXine: A Unique Horror Experience in the X Franchise

Maxxxine Movie Poster

Many viewers have been left disappointed with Ti West’s final installment of the X franchise. Except me. 🔪

In 1980s Hollywood, adult film star and aspiring actress Maxine Minx finally gets her big break. But as a mysterious killer stalks the starlets of Hollywood, a trail of blood threatens to reveal her sinister past.

MaXXXine is a 2024 American slasher film written, directed, produced and edited by Ti West. It is the third installment in West’s X film series and a direct sequel to X (2022).

Maxxxine Mia Goth and Halsey

When it comes to the three installments, most viewers are divided on which movie is the best, with the primary debate centered between X and its prequel, Pearl. I should preface this by saying I never saw Pearl, and I didn’t enjoy X, but for whatever reason, Maxxxine was my ticket into the Ti West fan club.

The film stars Mia Goth, who reprises her role as Maxine Minx, alongside Elizabeth Debicki, Moses Sumney, Michelle Monaghan, Lily Collins, and Kevin Bacon.

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The conclusion to the X trilogy feels like West’s love letter to Hollywood—a 1980s slasher and murder mystery where many argue style outweighs substance. This assessment isn’t far off. The movie was heavily overhyped by fans of the previous two installments, leaving many overwhelmingly disappointed. Everyone except myself. While I found myself bored with X, the exact opposite happened with Maxxxine, which leads me to believe this can be a stand alone film despite what many argue.

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You can appreciate this movie for its outstanding homages to Hollywood. The set design includes a nod to the 1960’s Hitchcock Psycho, and the soundtrack is a blend of 80’s hits that sets the tone perfectly. However, the true standout is Mia Goth’s performance, which brings an undeniable intensity and depth to the film. Her portrayal is a masterclass in acting, making her a captivating presence on screen. The film is a treasure trove of cinematic references and a testament to the dedication of its cast and crew.

On the review aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes, 73% of 234 critics’ reviews are positive, with an average rating of 6.5/10. The website’s consensus reads: “Intoxicating with its maxxximal style, MaXXXine is an uneven but vibrant pastiche that drives a stiletto through Hollywood’s heart.”

What I’ve always said about this movie is that it’s fun. Don’t go in expecting a deep, Oscar-worthy film—think of it as a popcorn flick. This is Mia Goth’s show, and she has earned a lifelong fan in me.

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