Without spoiling the plot, please note that the filmmaker answers each of those questions, some more directly, others a bit abstractly. And he does so with style, tons of humor, and a gleeful tone. While the overall story is a bit predictable, what West is saying about the very nature of horror, any horror movie, means he must play around with well-worn tropes. When Lorraine asks RJ why he’s doing this, he replies, “because it’s possible to make a good dirty picture.” West takes that to heart, as the gore effects are excellent, and the atmosphere is moody and eerie. The editing keeps viewers on edge, as some scenes from before and after events are intermingled. The director infuses the production with an energy that keeps the brisk pace moving from start to finish while balancing the comedy and horror.
X also gets a lot of mileage out of its cast. Goth, in a dual role as both Maxine and Pearl, is brilliant. As Maxine, she’s flirty, sexy, and determined, while the actor brings Pearl’s frailty to life in shocking ways. Snow gets a very different role than those that made her famous and nails it. While she still gets to show off her singing voice and comedic chops, she’s more acerbic and biting, which she confidently handles.
“…gets a lot of mileage out of its cast.”
Henderson is fun as the ambitious, jovial porn producer. Mescudi brings absolute confidence and charm to the role of the vet-turned-adult film star. Campbell, looking for all the world like a Lou Taylor Pucci clone, proves the film’s heart, while Ure is truly terrifying.
X is a strange beast that won’t appeal to everyone. However, if you can get on its same wavelength — which admittedly takes the first ten or fifteen minutes — and understand what West is doing, then you’ll have a good time. The cast is strong, the comedy and the horror work perfectly in tandem, the meta-commentary is the best Scream, and the ending line is sheer perfection.
"…might throw gorehounds for a loop as it slowly but surely piles on the absurdity."
