Netflix just got one of the best psychological thrillers – and it has 92% on Rotten Tomatoes
If someone asked me to pick a genre I love the most, I would say horror without hesitation. But thrillers will always have a place in my heart, and that includes films with an unpredictable protagonist (technically an antagonist) who is destined to go on an absolute killing spree.
One film that fits that description perfectly is Pearl, and it’s available today (August 16) on one of the best streaming services. Having already watched it, I can safely say that it’s one of the most haunting films I’ve seen in a long time. Trust me, you won’t be expecting anything that happens – Mia Goth’s incredible performance as Pearl will keep you wide-eyed throughout the entire runtime.
What sets Pearl apart from traditional horror thrillers is its ability to combine classic horror with an intense character study. It explores the dark corners of ambition, isolation and madness. If you haven’t seen it yet, you should definitely add this film to your Netflix watchlist. Here’s why.
What is “Pearl” about?
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Pearl is a psychological horror thriller that serves as a prequel to the film X. Both films were directed by Ti West. The film delves into the backstory of Pearl, the evil older woman from X, with Mia Goth portraying her as a young woman in the 1910s.
Set during the Spanish flu and World War I, Pearl follows the title character, who lives on a remote farm with her strict, overprotective mother and ailing father. Pearl dreams of escaping her oppressive life and becoming a movie star, but her ambitions are thwarted by her deep-seated mental health issues and increasingly violent tendencies.
The film is a terrifying but beautiful depiction of Pearl’s descent into madness as she struggles with her dark desires, societal pressures, and her desire for fame, all of which ultimately drive her to commit cruel acts throughout the film.
“Pearl” captures the dawning age of cinema
Less than five minutes into its running time, I knew Pearl would become a landmark in the genre. The film has one of the most incredible aesthetics and atmospheres when it comes to depicting the societal changes of the early 20th century, a time when movies went from novelties to a powerful cultural force.
Pearl was so successful upon its release because it masterfully weaves this historical context into a deeply personal and disturbing narrative. The film resonates with modern audiences not only for its suspenseful elements, but also for its exploration of timeless themes such as ambition, oppression and the fear of irrelevance. This is largely due to the incredibly talented Mia Goth, whose powerful portrayal of Pearl is what makes this film so successful. She embodies the desperation and madness of a character who is both a product of her time and a lasting example of unfulfilled dreams.
I’m not the only one who thinks this film is really great, considering critics gave it a high score of 92% on Rotten Tomatoes. Linda Marric of the Jewish Chronicle said, “Fresh, subversive and drenched in delicious irony and black humor, Goth continues to impress.”
Meanwhile, Phil Pirrello of the AV Club stated, “With Pearl, writer-director Ti West captures and expands the possibilities of the horror film, enhancing them in a way that further cements its status as one of the genre’s finest inventions.”
Even audiences were impressed, giving Pearl a high rating of 83%. Some called it the “best of the trilogy,” while others simply said, “Mia Goth, you’re a star.” Honestly, I would watch this movie again just for Goth.
Stream “Pearl” now on Netflix
If you’re a fan of psychological thrillers that keep you hooked long after the credits roll, you should definitely watch Pearl next. As a prequel to X and part of the trilogy that ends with MaXXXine, it really takes the time to delve deep into the origins of the horror genre’s newest antagonist. And with its stunning visuals, dark plot, and Mia Goth’s unforgettable performance, Pearl is one of those rare films that will both unsettle and deeply impress you.
Not a fan? See what else is new on Netflix in August 2024 and check out the best movies currently playing on the streamer.
Stream “Pearl” on Netflix now and see why it is one of the most talked about horror thrillers of 2022.
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