Post Strike Cinema 24' - MaXXXine

MaXXXine is the third instalment in West's X film series and a direct sequel to X (2022). Written, directed, produced and edited by Ti West. 

MaXXXine stars Mia Goth (reprising her role as Maxine Minx), alongside Elizabeth Debicki, Moses Sumney, Michelle Monaghan, Bobby Cannavale, Halsey, Lily Collins, Giancarlo Esposito, and Kevin Bacon. What a line up! Halsey and Kevin, bloody Bacon!

In the third film, Maxine sets out for fame and success in 1980s Hollywood while being targeted by a mysterious killer. MaXXXine is a departure from the Pearl origin story, which was the second film in the series. With Pearl, whose fervent aspiration to become a movie star led to her committing violent acts on her family's Texas homestead in 1918. It all links back to Hollywood really. It is a love letter to becoming an actor at whatever the cost. Whatever the violent acts required. And MaXXXine has some very violent acts.

In 1985 Los Angeles, amidst the Night Stalker murders, Maxine Minx successfully auditions for the lead in a new horror film, The Puritan II, despite her past, exclusively in porn. 

Maxine is a natural born hustler. She does any jobs possible to remain in Hollywood, auditioning for any roles that come her way. Of course porn to horror is a big step, but Maxine is driven.

I have enjoyed the X film series. While Pearl was a slow burn, this was the opposite. So many stars, murders, violence, this film lead to an explosive conclusion.

It was a very enjoyable night at the cinema, where West has clearly been a lover of Hollywood and the hustle to live/work in the film business.

There is a lot going on in this film, but it works. Maybe a fourth film in the X series will follow? Time will tell.

3.5 Stars.