L Hy Larson

This is the way horror films are supposed to be made. For much of this film comparisons to Silence of the Lambs are not unwarranted. Director Oz Perkins clearly didn’t approach this film in a typical horror way and has created something special as a result. Maika Monroe is subdued and wonderful. Alicia Witt is very compelling. Blair Underwood is a treat. Nicholas Cage is his typical over the top self that simply extends the impact of this film straight into your lap. Seriously, the man makes this film 3D. The film does “drag” at times but I swear those are built in moments to set up some levels of subliminal effects that border on The Exorcist.

Quick (stupid) Spoiler Alert: Chillest Cat Ever. Okay now that that is out of the way, to call this film “horror” is like calling Godzilla a lizard. I mean yeah but it’s a bit more than that, ya know? The film has some scary and gross moments but that really isn’t what this film is about. It’s a journey of determination in the face of assured destruction. Lupita Nyongo and Joseph Quinn are so fun to watch in this film. They both portray compelling, flawed (foolish even), and hopeful characters and as such are truly the focus of the film. Indeed there really isn’t much of a plot so much as sort of side quest/escort mission. Good visuals, great sound, amazing cat. The part that surprised me the most is I believe I heard this film only cost 65 million to make. They REALLY got the most bang for their buck with this one.

In terms of genre, Maxxxine kills it (sorry, ahem). Mia Goth turns in a fun performance rife with scary, creepy, inspired, vengeful, and delusional perspective. The direction also fits the 80s vibe well (albeit with the saturation turned waaay up). But… This film comes off as a little pandering when it comes to the shock value. This is a stylish choice that goes just a tad too far and as such mitigates the impact by turning genuine “ouch” moments into a campy Friday the 13th schtick and to prove the point, Kevin Bacon (a 13th alum) provides an anchor for this camp factor (pun intended). But… The movie COULD have gone further. It could have really leaned into the camp and transcended to something greater than what it ultimately gives us. Maxxxine is decent but it could have been great. If only it trusted itself as much as the titular character does… Oh well, maybe next time.

To find a film equaling the epic size of this film one would have to go back to Lord of the Rings or better yet Godfather Part Two. This film is HUGE. And that actually is a detractor… well, perhaps. Allow me to explain. It’s been said elsewhere that this film is more of a television series smashed together. This does have that kind of feel to it BUT knowing Costner’s dedication to filming what is on the page then the density of story in Horizon makes complete sense. That said this is not a movie for the casual theatre goer. This is a film for people who love rich storytelling. Note the difference between the words “movie” and “film” here. The performances everywhere (everywhere!) are really, really well done. I used the word “density” earlier. This also applies to the sheer amount of talent in this film. There are so many recognizable faces in this thing that it boggles me that it was even physically possible. And all of them are good. Costner has apparently invested effectively his life into this project and frankly if Hollywood doesn’t reward it then Hollywood forgot why it exists. This film is bigger than box office numbers. As such this will probably lose money. And for whatever it may be worth I feel Costner will end up being richer for Horizon far beyond anything that mere money can muster.

Christy Halls words in Daddio remind me of Eric Bogosian. Strong, honest, and blunt but with subtext under everything being said. This is a beautifully done single set film that feels like Broadway. Such good work here. Hall should be proud. Sean Penn has done so many amazing performances that it is hard to say this is his best but dang if it doesn’t FEEL like his best ever. In short… wow. Dakota Johnson provides the best work I’ve ever seen her do. Anyone- and I mean anyone- who tries to pigeon-hole this actress to trite work from past films isn’t being fair to the artist that she clearly truly always has been. People need to take her seriously now.