True to her name, Mia Goth has become synonymous with the horror genre. From Luca Guadagnino to Lars von Trier, the actor has worked with the best filmmakers in the genre. 3s343i

However, her partnership with Ti West has gained her the most attention. The MaXXXine will be her third film with the director, completing the X trilogy. The horror franchise has demonstrated Goth’s range, from portraying multiple characters who, at their heart, believe that they are stars. And judging from the actor’s previous roles, they aren’t the only ones. Goth has an impressive resume of films that spans the comedic to the audacious.

7. Suspiria 6i45g

Guadagnino’s remake of the Dario Argento classic was a divisive film but helped Goth’s ascent up the horror hierarchy. Adapted from the 1977 film of the same name, Suspiria charts Susie’s (Dakota Johnson) entrance to a prestigious dance school that’s not quite what it seems. Similar to its predecessor, the film depicts the spooky happenings at the school that ultimately lead to witchcraft.

But it is where the similarities end. The two versions of Suspiria are ultimately about very different things, and how it depicts those things is not always very effective. But Goth fits right at home in the film as Sara, one of Susie’s classmates. The ing role of Sara is integral to this film, showing exactly how horrific witchcraft can get. If there are weaknesses in the film, it doesn’t come from Goth’s acting ability. 

6. A Cure For Wellness 1j4ij

After his success with 2002’s The Ring, Gore Verbinksi returns to the horror genre. Inspired by the book, The Magic Mountain, the film weaves contemporary visuals with gothic sensibilities. After Lockhart (Dane DeHaan) goes looking for his CEO at a wellness spa, he quickly learns that it is not so easy to escape. While trapped, he meets Hannah (Goth), who believes in the lies that the wellness center is spreading.

A Cure For Wellness may not be ed as fondly as Verbinski’s other horror contribution, but the film is still an ambitious take on a familiar story. Goth exudes naivete and eeriness in the role of Hannah and is a driving force of the film.

5. Nymphomaniac  2o1y67

Actors have to get their big break somehow, and it seems par for the course that Goth would get it on the set of a Lars von Trier movie. The director is controversial for his harrowing subject matter, but the young actor couldn’t have been happier to get the role of, P in her feature film debut. She spoke to Collider’s Ladies’ Night about the experience of working on Nymphomaniac.

“It feels divine almost, if I can say that. It created a blueprint for me in of the kind of material that I wanted to work on with the types of directors and that kind of caliber of cast. I was incredibly fortunate to have that as my first project. It really kind of set the field for me in of what it is I’m aspiring to do.”

Nymphomaniac was an irable benchmark for Goth’s future in similar types of films and the movie is largely accepted as a decent entry into the director’s filmography. The young actor enters Part II of the film as a 15-year-old daughter of criminals and naturally enters a world of debauchery. True to her word, this was a platform for Goth, who would go on to find a niche in other films of its kind.

4. Emma. 50232i

The 2020 Jane Austen adaptation is a stark departure from Goth’s previous roles but a welcome change of pace. The film stars Anya Taylor-Joy as the titular matchmaker who finds purpose through making marital matches in recency England. Goth portrays Emma’s friend Harriet, who inadvertently becomes a romantic rival for the affections of Mr. Knightley (Johnny Flynn). 

Emma. is undeservingly not ed as well as Pride & Prejudice, despite featuring a more compelling central character. Emma has to confront her selfishness and realize that she wasn’t helping Harriet find a husband through any real sense of altruism. The comedy shows that Goth can pursue other types of subject matter, even if horror is where she is comfortable.

3. Infinity Pool 3g2e5s

In typical Cronenberg fashion, 2020’s Infinity Pool is a collage of violence, sex, and gratuitousness. Though not as concise a film as Brandon Cronenberg’s Possessor, it evokes similar feelings of discomfort while telling a compelling story about what the rich do to relax. Couple James (Alexander Skarsgård) and Em (Cleopatra Coleman) vacation on a fictional island to help the former ease his writer’s block. But they aren’t far into their trip to Li Tolqa before meeting a hedonistic couple, Gabi (Goth) and Al (Jalil Lespert).

Infinity Pool is a satirical conversation about escalating behavior. James becomes enamored with the couple as they do more daring and frankly criminal activities. The actors take the subject material and run with it, developing truly unhinged performances.

2. X 49r2l

The film that cinched Goth’s fame as a contemporary scream queen, X is an art project at its best. While ultimately a traditional slasher flick, West’s film is made with love. An homage to the grindhouse films of the ‘70s, X gives off the impression that it is shot on 16 mm to tell the story of a low-budget porn film made in the heart of Texas.

And if you didn’t know it yet, Maxine (Goth) wants to be a star. She doesn’t care if she has to act in porn or commit murder, this is the life she is committed to having. She is so devoted to her dream that when their landlord’s wife starts knocking them off one by one, she is the last person standing. Goth’s charisma and commitment to the material created a legend and led to the best film of her career. 

1. Pearl 3m5n59

If you thought X would be Goth’s magnum opus, think again. She and West impressed once again in the 2022 follow-up, Pearl. This time, Goth doesn’t play Maxine but the titular villain of the first film. Shot in technicolor to cement the film in its period, viewers watch to see how Pearl became the person she was always meant to be.

Stifled by a safe marriage and dreams of stardom, Pearl quickly decides that murder is the best way to get what she wants. West takes risks with the filming of the movie, most importantly in the final act. Goth shows how underrated she is as an actor as she performs an entire monologue in one straight shot. Pearl cries and makes us feel for her, regardless of what she has done or where she ends up. Pearl is the best film to watch ahead of the arrival of MaXXXine.

The following article includes references to sexual assault.

Ti West returns to A24 for the new film in his Mia Goth horror trilogy. Entitled MaXXXine, the trailer delivers on the promise of the first film.

MaXXXine is populated with a star studded-cast — a change from the low-budget nature of X. Also starring Kevin Bacon, Giancarlo Esposito, Bobby Cannavale, and Elizabeth Debicki, the film is a flashy follow-up to West’s previous films. As established in X, Maxine (Goth) follows her dream of being a star. She has made it to Hollywood as an adult film star and is intent on getting her big break. The chink in her plan isn’t just the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry. Something else was going on in the City of Angels in the ‘80s. A gruesome killer enters the picture in the trailer, a stark reminder of everything Maxine went through to get where she is. As she traverses Hollywood, she also must avoid this real-life monster.

Who is the “Night Stalker?” 642j15

The trailer for MaXXXine reminds viewers of the dark period of history that was consumed with fear for the Night Stalker. Born in El Paso, Texas, Richard Ramirez was the youngest of five. Typical of many serial killers, he had been subjected to brain injuries at a young age. At the age of five, he started experiencing epilepsy as a result of being hit in the head with a swing. He would soon develop an interest in the macabre, an affinity that many theorize was exacerbated when his cousin showed him gruesome photos from Vietnam of women being tortured.

In the ‘80s, Richard Ramirez terrified a nation by breaking into victims’ houses where he would assault and murder them. His first known murder was in 1984 when he stabbed a 79-year-old woman after sexually assaulting her. He was also known for incorporating Satanic imagery into his crimes.

His capture commenced on August 30, 1985, after a rendering of what he looked like was released to the public. This led to a group of good samaritans apprehending the killer. A civilian recognized Ramirez and chased him across a crowded highway in Los Angeles. A neighborhood full of people eventually surrounded the murderer and descended upon him until law enforcement arrived.

Ramirez is often a figure depicted in pop culture because he is a real-life representation of a truly evil figure. The Night Stalker took perverse pleasure in his crimes and never seemed remotely remorseful, even after ending up in prison. He was quickly sentenced to death after a short trial but ultimately did not see capital punishment. He died from cancer in 2013.

The Night Stalker’s reference in West’s new film is the first indication that the X trilogy takes place in the real world. X and Pearl exist in a world where lust for fame is a primary motivator, but there had not been larger-than-life figures such as Ramirez. It is unclear if anyone has been cast to portray him, but his presence in the film is felt nonetheless. More than likely, Maxine will be reminded of the literal horror show she experienced in X and already having to deal with one killing maniac. Ramirez may just be set dressing for Maxine’s journey in the film. Fans will have to wait until July 5 to see MaXXXine in theaters to find out.

Ti West’s slasher spectacle X arrived on the horror scene with a bang and it didn’t take long before the hit movie spawned an enormously entertaining trilogy full of brutal kills.

Following the success of both X and Pearl, the trilogy is now concluding with MaXXXine. Over the last several months, anticipation has been building for the thrill ride, which will land in theaters this summer. And, with trilogy veteran Mia Goth set to make her long-awaited return as protagonist and titular character Maxine, it’s hardly a surprise that horror hounds are gearing up for the film’s arrival.

So, let’s dive in and explore everything we know about MaXXXine thus far.

When is MaXXXine scheduled to release? 404s8

Spooky ers luckily won’t have to wait too long before the slasher extravaganza arrives, as MaXXXine will release in theaters on July 5, 2024 – just in time to present an unforgettable Summerween experience. No word has been revealed about the eventual streaming release, but information should certainly become available soon after the theatrical release and we’d expect to be available for digital purchase by October.

Is there a trailer? g3p5z

The first trailer for MaXXXine dropped this morning, showcasing the events following X, with Maxine turning her attention towards L.A. and becoming a megastar in the making. However, her plans are ruined when she realizes that a mysterious killer is targeting her.

What is the plot? 1p1551

Maxine embarks upon Hollywood after suffering a seemingly endless amount of trauma during X, where she and her film crew are attacked by Pearl and her husband Howard. After escaping from the elderly couple’s wrath, Maxine decides to pursue her career as a prominent filmmaker, although it’s revealed that her nightmare is far from over.

Who’s in the cast? 4rl7

Much like the first two installments in the fun-filled trilogy, modern-day scream queen Mia Goth is set to reprise her role as Maxine from X, just after the performer reprised her role as Pearl from West’s 2022 horrors. Along with Goth, the horror flick features a star-studded lineup consisting of Kevin Bacon, Giancarlo Esposito, Lily Collins, Michelle Monaghan, Halsey, and Elizabeth Debicki.

The list of celebrity scandals for 2024 is off to a screaming start, but nobody could have guessed what sort of alleged impropriety 30-year-old Pearl and MaXXXine star, Mia Goth, had coming her way in the new year.

All this and more is the subject of a recent lawsuit, filed against A24, Goth, and MaXXXine director Ti West. The details are harrowing. The claims? Sobering. The odds of another movie in the X franchise coming out in the wake of these claims: Probably unaffected.

Did Mia Goth boot a guy from MaXXXine in more than one way? 3q1s2m

Working in the background of movies and TV shows is frequently thankless, grueling work. The hours are long, the environment is uncomfortable, and the lunch is, generally speaking, Subway. 

According to Variety, after a lawsuit was filed on Jan. 12, 2024, the situation got even worse for James Hunter, a performer working on Goth’s MaXXXine. According to his complaint, Hunter had landed the part of “Dead Parishioner,” a role that mostly involved lying on the ground in a puddle of fake blood while Mia Goth stepped over him for three nights of shooting.

On the first night, Hunter claims that he complained to the film’s second A.D. about Goth’s boot and its proximity to his head, which he claimed was both treacherous and uncomfortable. The complaint was heard, relayed, and according to Hunter, resulted in Goth full-on punting him in the head on the next take. 

While accidents happen, and boots are always bumping into heads, what makes Hunter’s claims significantly more upsetting is the epilogue. Per the lawsuit, Goth later followed Hunter into the bathroom to make fun of him and mock him for thinking that he could do anything about it. Creepy? Mean? Very much. Allegedly. 

Hunter goes on to claim that he was lightheaded as a result of the kick, needing to pull over twice on his way home from the shoot. He further claims that he was informed by his agency that he would no longer be required for the next two nights of shooting. The result: A lawsuit was filed for wrongful termination (against Goth, West, and director Ti West) and battery (against Goth). It’s not exactly the sort of thing that you see attorneys specializing in on freeway billboard ments, but it’s a shocking allegation leveled against Goth, whose star seemed very much to be on the rise in the days leading up to the suit.

At present, she’s expected to appear in several high-profile projects, including Guillermo del Toro’s adaptation of Frankenstein and Marvel’s Blade reboot, which, according to multiple reliable sources, might actually come out one day.

Horror has always been a genre populated with women, but this isn’t the same as having a movie with a female lead that’s depicted in either a nuanced or relatable manner. Gone are the tasteless slasher films of the 80’s, as we’ve entered a wave of horror that shows women (both heroes and villains) in a more realistic light.

That being said, our list of horror films with female leads also includes some entries that stood the test of time despite their aged release date. Overall, though, you’ll see the majority of the recommendations we have are from the 21st century. From psychotic female killers to women just trying to save the day, you’ll find a variety of horror options to add to your personal watchlist.

Annihilation 2u5l7

Following a team of five women who have been brought together for a top-secret government mission for a variety of reasons, Annihilation gives a stellar experience of sci-fi horror that is unmatched. Starring Natalie Portman as the primary protagonist, Annihilation also features Jennifer Jason Leigh, Tessa Thompson, Gina Rodriguez, and Tuva Novotny. We recommend going into the film blind to maximize the experience.

Raw 1v1x3e

Looking for a French horror film with a female lead? If so, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better option than the 2016 film Raw, directed by Julia Ducournau. The movie is told primarily through Justine, a vegetarian newbie to a veterinary school. After being forced to consume meat, she begins to experience a quick descent into hunger, madness, and bloodlust. Raw exists as a symbolic depiction of female sexuality (shown through cannibalism, of all things), but that doesn’t make it skimp on the blood and gore.

Alien d2nr

There are few horror movie female leads depicted so intelligently and strongly as Sigourney Weaver‘s Warrant Officer Ellen Ripley from the classic film Alien. It’s a classic for a very good reason, and the hype isn’t just limited to Weaver’s acting (though it certainly doesn’t hurt). Alien is a horror film that creeps up on you, as it shuffles along from sci-fi action to downright horror. The gore and blood are endless, so you’re in for a treat in that department, too.

May 611m63

Giving some female representation to the trope of the killer driven mad by ostracization and loneliness, May is a surprisingly sensitive portrayal. Played by Angela Bettis (Girl, Interrupted and 12 Hour Shift), May Kennedy is a vet assistant with a deep desire for companionship and love from others. Her methods for relieving her deep-seated psychological problems become increasingly terrifying and twisted, leading towards a horrific ending. May is a weird, creepy, and sometimes oddly touching film.

Suspiria 643v38

Vintage cult-classics with a female-led cast like Suspiria are hard to come by. The Italian 1977 horror flick Suspiria follows a German dance school gone awry. If you’re looking for something with a female cast that descends into insanity and chaos, then definitely check this one out. It is a totally wild ride from start to finish, and it is made even more entertaining by the dazzling cinematography and ethereal performances throughout.

The Witch 3a444u

At first glance, The Witch may seem like a film that is boring or dry, but don’t be fooled by its period setting. The folk horror movie from A24 gives us a painstakingly accurate (but still interesting) portrayal of life in 1630s puritanical New England, peppered with scares throughout. Thomasin (played by Anya Taylor-Joy) is the teenage daughter of a family exiled for religious differences. When things continue to go horribly for the family, talk of a witch emerges. But is the threat real?

Sissy 25p6d

Narcissism, social media, and female friendships are all at the center of the 2022 wild ride that is Sissy. The Australian indie horror flick is shown through the eyes of social outcast turned social media influencer Cecilia (known as “Sissy” in her youth) as she attends the bachelorette party of a childhood friend. Things quickly spin out of control as Cecilia loses the grip on her public image and events from her past resurface, resulting in a bloody mess that she struggles to gain control of. Sissy is criminally underrated and deserves more viewers.

The Final Girls 4z3y6d

The slasher film is a subgenre so rife with tropes and clichés that it has inspired a wave of meta-slasher films, like horror-comedy The Final Girls. Taissa Farmiga (American Horror Story) and Malin Akerman (Watchmen) are the two main leads of the movie, where the whole main cast are sucked into an 80s slasher film. The group must struggle to survive, but who will be the last girl(s) standing in The Final Girls? This movie is another underrated gem that deserves way more eyes on it than it currently has.

Carrie 6qw3x

Few female leads in horror can compete with the eccentric, haunting, and tragic portrayal of Stephen King’s Carrie White by Sissy Spacek in the 1976 Carrie. Brian De Palma’s take on the horror novel adaptation is stylistic, intense, and weirdly erotic at times. That being said, the eroticism doesn’t feel particularly exploitative — which is rare in a 70’s horror flick. While not all aspects of Carrie have aged perfectly, it will remain a classic horror film, likely forever.

X franchise 6o4p46

If you’re hoping for female empowerment through X or Pearl (or the MaXXXine), you’re going to get a mixed bag. That’s essential to the vibe of Ti West’s X trilogy, though. Both Maxine and Pearl are women who have been transformed by vanity and the allure of fame. Both dream of a life better than that they were given. Both look to men as vehicles of escape, with lackluster results. While Maxine ends up straddling the line between heroine and villain, Pearl gives us a character who never stood a chance at redemption. More than anything, we really appreciate the fully-realized depictions of women in X and Pearl.

One of the highest achievements in horror is the ability for a particular project to frighten audiences so terribly that the film reaches a specific gold status. In doing so, these movies are slapped with the “cult classic” label for eternity and used as the gold standard for all horror flicks that will come after them. In the past, horror staples such as The Evil Dead (1981) and Re-Animator (1985) have earned this particular notoriety, insinuating that these projects are cinematic treasures that are still enjoyed by horror fanatics decades later.

Despite these unforgettable features, the modern-day realm of horror undoubtedly boasts a plethora of engaging movies that have the ability to become cult classics later down the line. Some of these films might need a few years — or even a decade — but that doesn’t at all hinder any chances of these projects earning the “cult classic” title. So, let’s dive in and explore 10 recent horror movies that are ready to become cult classics.

Creep 435j3y

For a film that arguably re-imagined the art and magic of the found footage sub-genre, it feels apparent that 2014’s Creep be included on this list. Centering around an independent filmmaker who responds to a Craigslist ad, it becomes obvious that the creator of the ad harbors much more serious intentions. Between the terrifying werewolf mask named Peachfuzz and Mark Duplass’ unhinged performance, there’s no denying that Creep is on its way to cult classic stardom.

It Follows b6bh

There likely isn’t a horror fan alive that wasn’t completely swept up by the jaw-dropping anxiety presented in 2014’s It Follows. The coming-of-age horror tale revolves around a deadly curse that is ed between sexual partners — which many horror fans believe to be a metaphor for sexually-transmitted diseases. The cinematic piece is saturated in mind-blowing concepts and spine-tingling scenarios as characters are faced with an original and raw otherworldly presence. 

Ready or Not 2n522v

It’s hard to imagine a list about future cult classics in horror without mentioning the brilliance of Ready or Not. Starring the incomparable Samara Weaving, the movie is a free-for-all horror spectacle which centers around a newly-crowned wife attempting to avoid the sadistic ritual of her in-laws’ trying to kill her. Over the years, the project has been highly regarded as one of the best horror flicks of the last decade — which only further establishes its clear journey toward cult classic status.

The Witch 3a444u

With groundbreaking projects such as The Lighthouse and The Witch on his resume, it comes as no surprise that Robert Eggers’ 2015 horror made it on this list. One of the most unsettling aspects of the hit horror is actually its premise — which centers around a New England family who are shunned from their community and forced to live near the woods. As a result, they are haunted by a devious witch, and an array of mind-melting sequences help to catapult Eggers’ film into the contendership for cult classics.

Midsommar 3l3x73

As one of the most talented filmmakers in the modern-day horror industry, it would surely be a crime if at least one of Ari Aster’s movies didn’t place on this list. Midsommar deals with an unfathomable cult during a midsummer festival in Sweden, and its pulse-pounding moments and dramatic performances ensure that cult classic status is undoubtedly in its reach for the future. Of course, this won’t be the only Aster movie on this list that is capable of that status.

Get Out 3f724v

As to be expected, considering Oscar winner Jordan Peele is arguably the most talented filmmaker in horror today, it seems only fitting that 2017’s Get Out should receive another moment in the spotlight. As it stands, the horror hit unequivocally shook up the landscape of the genre as a whole, driving home the significance of beautiful cinematography, divine imagery, and a premise which keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. To be honest, one could argue Get Out is already a cult classic.

Barbarian 494s71

One of the most mind-blowing horror movies of 2022 would have to be Zach Cregger’s Barbarian. In turn, it’s definitely only a matter of time until the heart-stopping horror experience is considered a cult classic by the entire community. Of course, it helps when you enlist an established scream king such as Justin Long, who absolutely shines in his role. From chaotic jump-scares to sheer terror, there’s no denying its path toward becoming a cult classic.

The Conjuring 2a5z69

You’d be hard-pressed to find a solitary soul in the horror fandom who hasn’t seen or at least heard of James Wan’s The Conjuring. Centering around the various cases attached to demonologists Ed and Lorraine Warren, the success of the first film eventually launched an entire franchise — and in turn, a horror cinematic universe. That being said, there’s no discounting The Conjuring’s cult status, making it one of the highest on this list.

Hereditary 3p1lj

Upon its release back in 2018, most of the horror community couldn’t stop discussing, analyzing, and dissecting Ari Aster’s Hereditary. Its spine-tingling premise and gritty performances — from Toni Colette and Alex Wolff — have quickly earned the film its reputation as one of the most brilliant, original horror movies of the last decade. That being said, one could argue that Hereditary is the most deserving of the title on this list.

X 4i30p

Ti West quickly went from an indie filmmaker to a high-profile, mainstream director for his work in slasher spectacle X. Starring the talented Mia Goth, the movie centers around a group of young filmmakers and adult film stars seeking out the perfect spot to shoot their erotic project. As is with every horror film, chaos eventually ensues, and West does a terrific job of breathing a breath of fresh air into a genre that definitely needed a boost. As a result, it’s merely a matter of a decade until X is renowned as a cult classic.

Ever since Ti West ignited the horror genre’s collective excitement with 2022’s X, the hit horror director has capitalized on the film’s success by crafting a budding cinematic universe based around X. In doing so, West introduced audiences to Pearl later on in 2022, and mapped out plans for MaXXXine — the third chapter in West’s X trilogy, which has just recently wrapped filming ahead of the movie’s rumored release this year.

Over on Twitter, @FilmUpdates confirmed that the project had wrapped production, all while including the film’s A-List cast lineup that will undoubtedly be one of the biggest reasons that moviegoers flock to the theaters in droves. And while the film hasn’t been given an official release date as of yet, there’s certainly no discounting that the majority of horror die-hards are heavily anticipating the extravaganza.

Of course, when a horror movie features stars such as Mia Goth, Giancarlo Esposito, and Kevin Bacon, then it should hardly come as a surprise that genre fanatics are crawling out of the woodwork to announce their excitement for the movie. And considering the popularity surrounding West’s trilogy, it’s worth wondering if the acclaimed filmmaker will expand upon the narrative and truly create a horror cinematic universe.

Seeing as how all three movies are in correlation to each other, the possibilities for a bigger universe feel endless. But for now, we’ll simply sit back and continue to bear witness to West’s horror magic when MaXXXine officially releases.

Many may not be aware of this, but Marvel star Karen Gillan had a small role to play in the horror slasher film X. The film, directed by Ti West and starring Mia Goth, was met with critical acclaim but left a few wondering why it featured a special thanks to Gillan. Well, one individual seems to have gotten to the bottom of it during the Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 press junket.

Gillan is not featured on the cast or IMDB page for the film, but she does have a tiny role to play nonetheless. Eric Goldman, managing editor for the Fandom website and host of We Enjoy podcast had been wondering what her involvement with the film was, having been unable to spot her in it at any point. Back in 2022, Goldman had interviewed West and asked him why Gillan has a Special Thanks accredited to her in the movie, with West responding “She has a hidden cameo in the movie.”

So when the opportunity came, over a year later, to ask Gillan herself what her cameo was he took it.

The actress has the briefest of voice acting roles, playing the voice of a radio ment. The reason that Gillan was likely brought in for this tiny role and agreed to do it is that she had worked with the director before in the 2016 Western film, In a Valley of Violence. The film starred Gillan alongside Ethan Hawke and John Travolta and earned critical praise for West, though the film was a commercial flop.

It is not uncommon for actors to take on these smaller roles to help out a director or professional friend they have worked with before. With the X franchise having grown with the critically acclaimed addition of Pearl and now the addition of MaXXXine, we wonder if Gillan will make an appearance once more, even if only as a disembodied voice.

It wouldn’t be Hollywood without a staggering amount of clichés. What was once groundbreaking cinema over 30 years ago are now tiresome tropes that have been through the wringer one too many times. It’s long been debated whether filmmaking peaked in the ’80s and ’90s or if the 2000s are just getting started. Either way, films have evolved over centuries, spanning all the way back to 1885 when the first-ever motion picture production was shown to a paying audience. You’d think in all that time that we’d have moved on from the same-old, but here we are — in 2023 — deciding which clichés are done to death.

In the last decade or so, we’ve found new and creative storytelling methods, be it through visuals, sound, light or theatrical performance. There always seems to be some technique discovered that becomes the norm for every like-minded film of that particular genre, even if it isn’t original in the slightest, but rather derived from more historical approaches. There have been breakthroughs in cinema, no doubt about it, but what’s mind-boggling in 2023 will be nothing but overrated by the time 2032 rolls around. And Reddit agrees, it would seem.

Some of the cliche’s discussed in the thread include extremely and abnormally dark cinematography, naked old people in horror flicks, too many multiverses to count, and random pop culture conversations inserted into mainstream movies to make them more relevant. If we consider Matt Reeves’ The Batman, there’s your prime example of dark cinematography to the extreme, which wasn’t a smart decision given that the main superhero and femme fatale both wear all-black ensembles. Then, there’s the naked elders randomly inserted into a slasher, such as Pearl in Ti West’s X or the shapeshifting antics of ‘IT’ in the Stephen King adaptation of the same name. Let’s bury that trope with The Visit, where it belongs.

As for multiverses, we need not go further than mentioning the MCU, which has become decidedly ridiculous in its 10+ years on the big screen. That nonsense should have died with Iron Man in Avengers: Endgame. Does the DCU really need a multiverse too? And what about this supposed ‘horror multiverse’ we’re getting? Wait, fine. That actually sounds pretty cool, so that one can stay.

And there’s the ‘random pop culture discussions,’ for which franchises like Scream are so infamously known. After 2022’s ‘requel,’ you’d think Radio Silence would take a break from the self-referential approach, but no, it wouldn’t be Scream without it nowadays. It isn’t enough to have Ghostface terrorize New York City, we also have to mention how he terrorized Woodsboro for five other films before that. If we don’t, we’re not mainstream. No!

By now, you probably get the picture. There’s so many more clichés out there, but we’d estimate in the last five years or so, these ones are the most prominent by a long shot. Sadly, we’ll have to wait another 10 or 20 years before we can safely confirm that these are indeed clichés.

Happy Wednesday, Wednesday fans! Sadly, the Jenna Ortega vehicle won’t be discussed in this article, but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t a plethora of other eyebrow-raidates to be revealed in today’s daily horror roundup here at We Got This Covered. And if you thought past roundups were entertaining, then today’s whirlwind of revelations is set to absolutely blow your mind. In today’s collection of news, fans are uncertain (and nervous about) where the direction of an OG Scream character will go while Nic Cage promises an otherworldly version of Dracula. Fasten your seatbelts — as this will be a roundup you shouldn’t miss.

So, before you begin purchasing extra early-bird tickets for Renfield, be sure to follow along as we uncover the latest updates in the realm of horror.

Scream queen Mia Goth teases exciting content for the future of a popular trilogy 36n3e

Without a doubt, Ti West’s X trilogy is a popular monopoly that has absolutely captivated the attention of the horror fandom. From X’s smooth slasher narrative to Pearl’s deep-dive into the titular character’s subconscious, the fresh-faced franchise has easily become of the most anticipated and triumphant of the last decade. In doing so, the franchise has unexpectedly skyrocketed the career of Mia Goth — who horror fans have quickly regarded as a modern-day scream queen with an undeniable talent for acting in the genre. And luckily for horror fanatics, Goth has teased that MaXXXine, the final entry in the series, is set to be the biggest and best movie yet as far as the trilogy is concerned. Hold on to your hat for this one, folks.

Nicolas Cage is set to deliver the most likable and interesting version of Count Dracula l1b6f

Ever since the old age of black-and-white film, Count Dracula has been solidified by filmmakers as one of the most significant figures in the horror genre. While slasher staples like Michael Myers and Jason Voorhees are important, Count Dracula stands out as the best classic figure that has terrorized the genre for over a century. Flash forward to present day, and beloved actor Nicolas Cage is ready to showcase an unprecedented version of the vampire villain that will turn the catalog on its head. And if the interest surrounding Cage’s role wasn’t high enough before, then it’s safe to assume that all eyes are on the action hero to deliver an unforgettable performance.

The future of a beloved Scream star could be in serious jeopardy 44i71

Every Scream fan (or even those folks who aren’t fans) knows that Sidney Prescott, Dewey Riley, and Gale Weathers have been the leading trio as far as legacy characters are concerned. However, considering Dewey’s death in Scream (2022) and Neve Campbell departing the franchise, Courteney Cox’s Gale remains the last OG character still alive and involved in the narrative. And yet, diehard fans are completely convinced that she won’t be making it to Scream 7. And while that might be a different pill for folks to swallow, there’s no denying that the franchise is moving in the direction of its young newcomers, and perhaps Gale’s time in the film series has run its course — despite her being a total badass. Either way, all questions will be answered when Scream VI arrives on March 10.

Dive back in tomorrow, slasher stans, for a shiny new horror roundup.

In an alternate universe where horror has gained a bit more traction in the form of Academy respect, we just may have seen Mia Goth, Ti West, and a duology of riveting slashers among this year’s Oscar nods.

Until multiversal travel becomes available, we’ll just have to settle for the X franchise being our own personal slice of great media, and we’re more than satisfied with that. We were lucky enough when writer-director West gifted us X, a seemingly straightforward slasher that hid an infinitely curious and important commentary on desirability and aging, but to follow it up almost immediately with the prequel Pearl, a character study horror and the site of trilogy star Goth’s most captivating performance ever? Indeed, Christmas came early in 2022.

The X show isn’t over yet, as West and Goth have plans to wrap up the trilogy with MaXXXine, a sequel to X that continues the plight of protagonist Maxine Minx after her deathly run-in with Pearl and her husband Howard. According to Goth herself in a recent interview with Collider, MaXXXine is the crown jewel of the X trilogy, offering up higher stakes and a bigger world than ever before.

“It’s just such a fun film. Ti, really, I don’t know how he does it. He’s just able to come up with these worlds. It’s just the biggest of the three movies. The stakes are the highest and Maxine has been through so much at this point. It’s the biggest stakes, the biggest world, I’m very excited.”

Goth has an especially unique role as the leading lady of the X trilogy, being responsible for the portrayal of both Maxine and antagonist Pearl in the trilogy’s first entry, while bringing a younger version of Pearl to life in the prequel of the same name. MaXXXine, of course, will see her reprise the role of Maxine.

Whatever West and Goth are cooking up, we’ll certainly be ready to order; if they can somehow outdo the previous two entries with MaXXXine, the duo could very well end up solving movies as a whole.

Happy Tuesday, ghostly goons! And what a Tuesday it’s been already, with a whirlwind of delightful goodies just begging to be included in today’s daily horror roundup here at We Got This Covered. And not to toot our own horn or anything, but we’ve definitely got you covered on today’s wild collection of the spookiest updates in the catalog. Over the last 24 hours, genre diehards have feasted their eyes on Stephen King teasing an adaptation, while the Academy Awards have come under fire for — unsurprisingly — snubbing one of 2022’s brightest scream queens.

So, before you get too eager and start planning your 2023 Oscars watch parties, keep your eyes glued to today’s roundup as we dive into the latest news in spookyland.

To the surprise of no one, the Oscars are still snubbing horror actresses 6q6h53

For decades now, the ever-popular horror genre has been horrifyingly ignored by the Academy — with only a handful of Oscars being handed out to those involved with these fear features. It’s a shame, really, considering the horror genre consistently pumps out larger-than-life flicks that include a parade of knockout performances. Now, genre fanatics are in shambles after one of the brightest young stars in the genre in Mia Goth failed to receive a much-deserved Oscars nod for her role in Ti West’s Pearl. It remains to be seen if the horror genre, or its talented string of performers, will ever get the recognition they deserve — but if so, we hope it happens real soon.

Terrifier’s Art the Clown is dividing audiences once again 5s3tz

Without a doubt, Damien Leone’s Terrifier franchise continues to make waves within the horror community — so much so that the series’ stark villain in Art the Clown often divides audiences in regards to his scare factor and entire persona. In a recent Reddit thread, horror fans were divided in a debate over what type of clown Art really is. And while some argued that Art resembles a mime (especially because he doesn’t ever speak), others have insisted that he’s a Pierrot — which relates to a sad, tragic clown who is deprived of human understanding and conditions. It’s an intriguing theory, for sure, and it keeps eagle-eyed viewers on their toes whenever the frightening figure is on the big screen.

Much to the delight of us all, another Stephen King adaptation is on the way 39254b

By now, it’s common knowledge that Stephen King is the undisputed master of horror, with the acclaimed author having penned a variety of bestselling novels and short stories that have been beautifully transformed into both movie and TV adaptations. And luckily, another famed adaptation in The Boogeyman is on its way — with the novelist confirming that the first official trailer for the film will drop this weekend during the NFL’s NFC Championship game. Of course, it’ll be hard to match up to the hype of King’s previous works of art in cinema, but horror fans will undoubtedly be looking forward to another bone-chilling project set to hit the big screen.

Slide back in tomorrow, Goth stans, for a fresh-faced horror roundup.