Longlegs, starring Nicolas Cage is receiving rave reviews from critics and audiences. Directed by Osgood Perkins, it revolves around an FBI agent’s hunt for an occultist serial killer. However, Perkins has recently made waves not for his work on the movie, but for a controversial comment.
During an interview, Perkins spoke about his perspective on modern horror movies. However, he singled out the films of one acclaimed horror director, while expressing his thoughts on contemporary horror and filmmakers working in the space. Here is what Perkins had to say, which is likely to start a new beef.
Longlegs Director Osgood Perkins Calls Out Pearl Director Ti West
Osgood “Oz” Perkins is primarily known for his work in the horror genre with films such as The Blackcoat’s Daughter and Gretel & Hansel. His most recent directorial venture is the Nicolas Cage-led Longlegs, which has received positive reviews from critics.
During an interview to promote the movie, Perkins was asked about his thoughts on modern horror films. In response, Perkins stated he refrained from watching horror movies made by his contemporaries.
I don’t see new ones. I have no interest. I’ll never see MaXXXine, I’ll never see Pearl.
Perkins made the above statement to The Hollywood Reporter, singling out the work of director Ti West.
West directed a trilogy of slasher-horror movies, which were well-received by critics and audiences. Moreover, legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese also expressed his love for West’s work.
In his interview, Perkins clarified that he did not watch modern horror movies, not because they weren’t great but because they did not interest him. However, Perkins citing only West’s films as examples in his statement suggests that he has a personal beef with the filmmaker.
Netizens React to Osgood Perkins’ Comments About Contemporary Horror
Perkins’ comments about horror movies made by his contemporary directors, particularly those of Ti West, quickly caught the attention of netizens on social media. As a result, several social media users spoke out against the Longlegs director’s sentiments.
Netizens took to X (formerly Twitter), to express their views on the supposed beef sparked by Perkins’ comments, and here is what they had to say.
As the tweets suggests, netizens, especially those who love the horror genre, were unhappy with Perkins’ statement, especially since it was seemingly aimed at West’s films.
Social media users criticized Perkins’ statement, calling it pretentious since the director has primarily worked in the horror genre. Hence, fans of the genre felt that he should be supporting the work of other directors instead of singling out a filmmaker like West, whose films have impacted the genre and audience.
Longlegs was released on July 12, 2024, and is playing in theaters near you.