In 2022, Ti West’s “X” was released in theaters, his homage to the slasher film subgenre of horror. Heavily influenced by “The Texas Chain Saw Massacre,” amongst other films from the subgenre, it followed a group of amateur filmmakers traveling to a desolate farm to shoot an adult film in 1979 Texas. Little do they know that the dilapidated farmhouse on this land is home to a deranged elderly couple seeking new victims. The film starred Mia Goth in dual roles as aspiring adult film star Maxine Minx and the antagonist Pearl, showcasing her acting range. That same year, the prequel “Pearl” was released — a character study and origin story of the “X” antagonist, which also doubles as a homage to the films of the Golden Age of Hollywood. 

Taking place in the year 1918, in the midst of the Influenza pandemic, “Pearl” follows the titular character, who resides on a remote farm with her German immigrant parents: a domineering mother along with a paralyzed and feeble father (whom Pearl has to take care of). Pearl is also waiting for her husband, Harold, who is serving overseas during World War I, to return home. 

Mia Goth portrays the titular character, who aspires to be a movie star, specifically a chorus girl. 

Goth is fantastic at commanding the screen by portraying a character who exhibits psychopathic tendencies, which are signs of a frail state of mind, as showcased by the opening sequence. A prominent example of this is the disturbing delivery of her monologue in the film’s third act, which is a testament to her outstanding performance.

In terms of the supporting cast, there is an excellent performance from newcomer Emma Jenkins-Purro, who portrays Mitsy, Pearl’s wealthy sister-in-law. Mitsy first appears when she arrives with her mother at the farmhouse to deliver a roasted pig to Pearl’s family. This scene also demonstrates Mitsy’s upper-class background, with her glamorous dress contrasting with the overalls Pearl is wearing.  

Ti West has crafted a unique film and an excellent addition to the horror genre. With his direction (along with a screenplay co-written by him and Mia Goth), West also utilizes symbolism in the film, such as the rotting roasted pig infested with maggots sitting on the porch of the farmhouse, which represents Pearl’s decaying mental state as the film progresses. He also creates some downright disturbing imagery, especially in the film’s third act. West’s vision for the film was influenced by the Golden Age of Hollywood, which is embedded into the film, right down to the title sequence, reminiscent of Classical Hollywood opening credits, specifically the credit sequence of “The Wizard of Oz” — nailing this aspect right down to the letter font.

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Eliot Rockett’s cinematography complements Ti West’s cinematic vision quite well. Whether it be a wide shot of a cornfield that Pearl goes into to retrieve a snippet of film or a close-up shot of Pearl donning a demented manic grin, there is a plethora of great camerawork in this film. 

“Pearl” delivers an unnerving character study and origin story of one of the most unconventional horror antagonists in recent years. With a career-defining performance from Mia Goth, stunning yet disturbing visuals, and excellent direction from Ti West, it’s easily one of the most original horror films of the decade so far. “Pearl” is indeed a star. 

“Pearl” is available on Blu-ray and is also streaming on Showtime along with  Paramount+. 

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