A movie that perfectly aligns with my love for horror and thrillers. “Pearl” is an absolute must-watch, and it’s currently available on one of the top streaming services as of August 16. After watching it, I can confidently say that it’s one of the most bone-chilling movies I’ve seen in a long time. The plot keeps you on the edge of your seat, and Mia Goth’s phenomenal portrayal of Pearl is nothing short of mesmerizing.
What makes “Pearl” stand out is its seamless blend of classic horror elements with a profound character study. The movie delves deep into themes of ambition, isolation, and madness, offering a unique and unsettling cinematic experience. If you’re a fan of horror and thriller genres, “Pearl” belongs at the very top of your watchlist on Netflix.
As a psychological horror thriller prequel to Ti West’s “X,” “Pearl” provides insight into the background of the villainous elderly woman known from “X.” Mia Goth portrays Pearl as a young woman in the 1910s, offering a glimpse into her earlier life.
The story is set against the backdrop of the Spanish Flu and World War I, taking place on an isolated farm where Pearl resides with her strict, overbearing mother and ailing father. Despite her challenging circumstances, Pearl harbors dreams of escaping her oppressive life to pursue a career as a movie star. However, her aspirations become entangled with her deep-seated psychological issues and increasingly violent inclinations.
“Pearl” masterfully navigates the complexities of Pearl’s descent into madness, skillfully addressing her inner struggles, societal pressures, and her unyielding desire for fame. Throughout the film, these adversities drive her to commit gruesome acts, painting a harrowing yet captivating portrait of her transformation.
From the moment “Pearl” began, I was captivated by its potential to become a timeless classic in its genre. The film’s stunning aesthetics expertly depict the societal transformations of the early 20th century, a pivotal period when movies were transitioning from mere novelties to influential cultural fixtures.
What truly sets “Pearl” apart is its seamless integration of historical context with a deeply personal and unsettling narrative. Its resonance with contemporary audiences lies not only in its suspenseful storytelling but also in its exploration of enduring themes such as ambition, repression, and the fear of fading into obscurity. Mia Goth’s remarkable talent shines through in her powerful portrayal of Pearl, embodying the desperation and turmoil of a character shaped by her era while also serving as a poignant symbol of unfulfilled aspirations.
The acclaim “Pearl” received is well-deserved, evident in its impressive 92% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Linda Marric of The Jewish Chronicle praised its freshness, subversion, and dark humor, noting Goth’s continued impressive performances. Similarly, Phil Pirrello, writing for AV Club, lauded writer-director Ti West for embracing and elevating the possibilities of horror cinema, cementing his position as a significant contributor to the genre.
Audiences were equally effusive in their praise, awarding “Pearl” a commendable 83% rating. Some described it as the standout film of its trilogy, while many simply celebrated Mia Goth’s stellar performance. Frankly, I would eagerly rewatch “Pearl” solely to witness Goth’s mastery once again.
Fans of psychological thrillers that linger long after the credits roll should add “Pearl” to their watchlist. Serving as a prequel to “X” and part of an intriguing trilogy that culminates with “MaXXXine,” “Pearl” delves deep into the origins of horror’s latest antagonist. Boasting captivating visuals, a gripping storyline, and a unforgettable performance by Mia Goth, “Pearl” is a rare film that will both unsettle and impress viewers. Experience “Pearl” on Netflix now to discover why it’s one of the most talked-about horror thrillers of 2022.
