As the curtains rise on the much-anticipated thriller “Longlegs,” starring Nicolas Cage and Maika Monroe, the film is already creating waves among critics and cinema aficionados. The movie, set to hit theaters on July 12, 2024, has garnered attention not just for its gripping narrative and Cage’s chilling portrayal of a satanic serial killer, but also for the intriguing behind-the-scenes dynamic between the co-stars.
Maika Monroe Respects, But Rejects Method Acting
In a recent interview with IndieWire, Maika Monroe shared insights into her experience working alongside Nicolas Cage, known for his intense method acting. Monroe, while expressing immense respect for the craft, confessed that method acting is a boundary she is not willing to cross.
“You can’t necessarily snap out of it, but I’m definitely not the Method type of actor. It just isn’t for me,”
Monroe stated. She added,
“I have massive respect for it. I think it’s incredible, and I think certain roles, especially, you need to do that.”
The dynamics on the set of “Longlegs” were particularly unique due to Cage’s deep immersion in his character, which Monroe witnessed only on the final shooting day. The film’s marketing strategy has mirrored this sense of mystery, keeping Cage’s and Monroe’s looks under wraps until the film’s release, enhancing the audience’s anticipation.
A Killer Role: Nicolas Cage as the Methodical Menace
Nicolas Cage, in “Longlegs,” portrays a killer at the heart of a series of chilling unsolved murders. His character, deeply connected to the occult, presents a complex challenge for Monroe’s character, FBI agent Lee Harker. Harker’s investigation leads her to a shocking personal connection with Cage’s menacing role. This intricate web of narratives promises a rich plot rife with suspense and horror elements, positioning “Longlegs” as a classic in the making.
Monroe, reflecting on Cage’s process, remarked on the necessity of staying within the character’s mindset, something she admires but finds overwhelming for her own approach.
“For Nic, you kind of need to stay in that space. There’s no part of Nic that exists in that character, but I think for me, just for mental health reasons, it’s just nice to be able to step out of that world,”
Critical Acclaim and Box Office Prospects
Ahead of its official release, “Longlegs” has already received rave reviews from critics, praising both Cage’s performance and the film’s overall production. Despite facing stiff competition from blockbuster sequels like “Inside Out 2” and the upcoming “Deadpool & Wolverine,” there is optimistic speculation that Cage’s star power could help “Longlegs” perform well financially. The film’s success at the box office, however, remains to be seen as it navigates through these major releases.
As “Longlegs” prepares to thrill audiences, the spotlight not only shines on the eerie and compelling story but also on the fascinating interplay of acting philosophies between Nicolas Cage and Maika Monroe. Their collaboration offers a peek into the diverse approaches to the craft of acting, enriching the narrative both on and off screen.