★★★★★★☆☆☆☆ (6/10)

"MaXXXine," the final installment in Ti West's trilogy, is an engaging yet imperfect exploration of the dark underbelly of fame and fortune in Hollywood. Set against the vibrant backdrop of 1980s Los Angeles, the film draws viewers into a world of neon-lit streets and gritty realism, capturing the essence of the era with a striking visual style that enhances its ominous tone.

At the center of the story is Maxine, portrayed brilliantly by Mia Goth, whose performance is a highlight of the film. Goth's portrayal of Maxine is intense and nuanced, bringing depth to a character caught in the relentless pursuit of stardom. She convincingly conveys the psychological complexities of a woman navigating the treacherous landscape of Hollywood's allure and corruption. Through her journey, the film delves into the timeless themes of ambition, moral compromise, and the often destructive quest for fame, offering a disturbingly dark take on the glittering facade of the entertainment industry.

Having not seen the first two movies in Ti West's trilogy, I found "MaXXXine" to be quite accessible. While the film contains references and nods to its predecessors, it stands on its own, providing a coherent and engaging narrative that doesn't require prior knowledge of the earlier films. However, fans of the trilogy may consider the first two entries superior, often praising their more tightly constructed plots and balanced tone.

"MaXXXine" maintains a steady sense of suspense throughout, with a mystery that keeps the audience guessing. The tension is palpable, and the plot unfolds in a way that draws viewers into its dark and twisted world. However, the film sometimes leans too heavily into violence, with certain scenes bordering on slasher territory. While these moments contribute to the film's intense atmosphere, they can feel gratuitous and may detract from the psychological depth that drives the narrative. The graphic nature of some scenes might be off-putting to those expecting a more traditional thriller experience.

Additionally, after building up an intriguing mystery, the film's conclusion feels somewhat predictable. The ending lacks the surprising twist or clever resolution that might have elevated the film to a more satisfying conclusion. This, combined with a shift toward more action-heavy scenes, makes "MaXXXine" feel more like an overtly violent action movie than the cerebral thriller it initially promises to be.

"MaXXXine" offers an intriguing, albeit flawed, conclusion to Ti West's trilogy, with standout performances and a strong sense of atmosphere. While it may not surpass its predecessors, it remains a compelling watch for those interested in dark, psychological stories about the seductive and perilous nature of fame.

Poster source: http://www.impawards.com/2024/maxxxine_ver2_xlg.html

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