In just two years, A24 and filmmaker Ti West have forged one of the most unique trilogies in modern horror — using all three projects to discuss notions of fate, persistence, and to some extent, the importance of reclaiming your power. Now, through the release of the third film MaXXXine, the ambitious character-driven story has officially come to an immaculate end, creating a compelling legacy that emphasizes the dangers of fame and the industry as a whole.

Maxine Minx is A New Genre Legend

During the conclusion of X, it became crystal clear that Maxine (and actor Mia Goth) radiate absolute star power — becoming the sole survivor of the ‘Texas Porn Star Massacre,’ and bringing Pearl’s rampage to a gruesome end. By the time MaXXXine picks up, we’ve leaped forward several years later to witness her transition out of the adult film world (which she’s gained notoriety from), and into the acting path that she’s always desired. To make matters even more nuanced, the franchise’s Final Girl is stepping into something she’s all too familiar with… horror.

The third film in the trilogy does a brilliant job at presenting the new life Maxine has created for herself as she tirelessly works to break into Hollywood and attain her lifelong dream of stardom. When her complicated past is eventually weaponized, the film expertly forms an undeniable attachment between audiences and Maxine having witnessed her unconventional upbringing or even the horrific events of X that ignited her fend-for-yourself trauma response. And the film’s consistent delivery of Maxine’s quintessential Final Girl fortitude is easily one of the film’s strongest qualities.

As things become unimaginably tense, Maxine’s recognition of these solo-oriented coping skills becomes an even larger focal point — taking a spectacular thematic leap in a unique story that already boasts, strength, confidence, and most of all, resilience. In essence, this organic, introspective evolution of the titular character reinforces the notion that both Mia Goth and Maxine Minx are timeless industry legends.

Revitalizing ‘80s Horror

Aesthetically, MaXXXine is a thrilling visual immersion into the authentic tone of 1980s horror cinema. From the moment the movie begins, viewers are transported back in time with its grainy film quality, synth-heavy soundtrack, and homage to classic genre tropes (including common framing and camera work comparable to ‘80s indie horror). The attention to detail in recreating the 1980s aesthetic is truly impressive, similar to its predecessors X and the riveting flick Pearl, making every scene feel like a nostalgic trip to the golden age of inventive horror ideas.

The film’s practical effects and makeup work in MaXXXine further emphasize the dedication to capturing the essence of 1980s horror, with grotesque bloody sequences and visceral gore reminiscent of cult classics from the era. Including an unforgettably painful moment in a dark alley — iykyk). As a result of its dedication to curating a precise story within an influential, campy era, MaXXXine successfully channels the spirit of 1980s horror while delivering a fresh and captivating tale that is sure to satisfy both die-hard fans of the genre and newcomers alike. There’s a tangible sense of ‘80s grittiness that just works.

A Rewarding Murder Mystery

At the center of this film, MaXXXine generally leans into its murder mystery elements as opposed to solely relying on the previously established slasher tone of X. This stylistic pivot reminds viewers of West’s intention to avoid conventional repetition, conjuring up a variety of new characters who quickly add to the body count. And of course, some offer more red herring potential than others.

While the film’s deranged antagonist isn’t necessarily established from in beginning (to maintain the genre’s typical ambiguity) the majority of returning viewers are surprisingly led to pinpoint the person behind the bloodbath very early on. Especially given the unfinished plot depicted in X. However, its inventive execution and full-circle reveal offer a unique spin on embracing the obvious choice, leading to a confrontation that feels as iconic as Maxine Minx herself. Moreover, the journey still manages to create several compelling misdirects, knowing how to masterfully challenge even the most confident cinema sleuths.

A Strong Conclusion to an Impressive Trilogy

As a project that was initially conceived to be a multi-generational trilogy, MaXXXine arguably had the most to prove. Fortunately, building upon the groundwork laid by its predecessors, MaXXXine successfully rises to the occasion, incorporating familiar themes and characters that offers fans a culmination of the story while introducing fresh new opportunities for terrifying plot twists.

By tapping into some of its unshakable franchise traits such as passion and drive (as heavily depicted in X and Pearl) the third entry also paves the way for a climactic resolution that not only answers lingering questions but gives even more context to the first film of the franchise. More importantly, the film's ability to bring together these various elements from the previous installments in a coherent and captivating manner showcases West's talent for storytelling and his deep understanding of what the horror genre needs.

Score: 8.5/10

MaXXXine radiates cinematic excellence while delivering one of the most influential Final Girls in modern horror.