Nicholas Cage is known for his intense performances in movies, and his latest film, Longlegs, is no exception. Although Cage has been kept out of the movie’s marketing, the buzz surrounding his creepy appearance and portrayal of a serial killer has piqued the interest of many. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Cage revealed that he drew inspiration from his own family history for his role in the film.
One particular childhood memory that Cage shared was seeing his mother put on Noxzema cold cream, which left a lasting impression on him. The sight of her face turning white after applying the cream spooked him, and this image of whiteness is reflected in Longlegs’ ghastly complexion in the film. Cage admitted that there is no specific reason for his character’s appearance, but he acknowledged the strange connection between the killer and the color white.
Cage described his role in Longlegs as deeply personal, drawing from his mother’s struggle with schizophrenia. He incorporated elements of her poetic speech patterns into his character, who is portrayed as being haunted by voices. To prepare for the role, Cage recorded his performance on his phone to capture the character’s rhythms and melodies, likening it to performing a song or a piece of music.
In the film, Longlegs targets Maika Monroe’s character, Harker, by giving possessed dolls to families of girls born on specific days. The climax of the film sees Harker confronting Longlegs, who had targeted her as a child but was stopped by her mother. Cage revealed that the pivotal encounter between their characters was what drew him to the film, praising Monroe’s performance and the intense dynamic between their characters.
Director Osgood Perkins intentionally kept Longlegs hidden from direct view in the film, using angles and reflections to create a sense of presence without full visibility. This technique emphasizes the impact Longlegs had on Harker as a child and the suppressed memories she carries. Cage’s unsettling performance in Longlegs has generated significant buzz and is drawing audiences to see the film.
Overall, Cage’s personal connection to his role in Longlegs adds depth and authenticity to his portrayal of the chilling serial killer. His dedication to capturing the character’s nuances and the intense relationship between Longlegs and Harker elevates the film to a new level of suspense and intrigue.
