X, Pearl, Maxine XXX: Ti West's Horror Trilogy

Contents:

• What is the plot of the trilogy about?
• Who directed the X trilogy?
• What X-factors can be identified in West's films?

What is the plot of the trilogy about?

The Ti West trilogy includes three films: "X," "Pearl," and "Maxine XXX." Although released in the order listed, the internal narrative begins with Pearl. This allows viewers to immerse themselves in the backstory that sets the context and developments for subsequent films. The trilogy is captivating for its unique presentation and deep character development, making it a landmark film in contemporary cinema.

Pearl lives on her father's farm in Texas, where she cares for him as he is paralyzed and requires constant care. She eagerly awaits her husband, Howard,'s return from the war, while also coping with the challenges of her eccentric mother. Despite these trials, Pearl strives to support her father and dreams of leaving the small town to pursue her dream of becoming a star. Meanwhile, a dance troupe recruits in a nearby town, which could be a chance to change her life.

She begins a relationship with a projectionist working at a movie theater, and a romance blossoms between them. The projectionist inspires her to pursue her dream of performing in the corps de ballet. Despite her difficult relationship with her parents, she finds it difficult to leave home, and sometimes she feels like it would be easier if they simply disappeared. One evening, her mother finds a movie theater flyer, leading to a serious argument. In a fit of anger, Pearl pushes her mother, who is burned by the open fire in the fireplace. In a panic, the girl takes the victim to the basement and leaves her there before going to the projectionist, hoping to start a new life and realize her dreams.

The next day, he takes Pearl home, but the eerie and strange farm terrifies him. When he tries to leave, Pearl attacks him in a fit of rage, killing both him and her father. Afterwards, she continues preparing for the audition with cold calm. Pearl goes to the competition with her sister-in-law, Mitzi, who ultimately proves stronger than her. Pearl ends up killing her as well. However, when her rage subsides, she realizes the horror of her actions. In despair, Pearl realizes that her mother was always right—she should appreciate what she has. Sixty years after the farm closed, a group of young people arrives on the property, intending to make a pornographic film. The lead role in the project is played by Maxine, an aspiring porn actress who dreams of a career in Hollywood. Her boyfriend, Wayne, who serves as the producer, director RJ, sound engineer Lorraine, and several other actors are with her. They are met by Howard, the farm's owner, who, unaware of the guests' true intentions, offers them accommodation in the guest house. This meeting marks the beginning of a memorable story, full of unexpected twists and conflicts that change the lives of everyone involved.

While the crew prepares for filming, Maxine strolls through the farm and meets Pearl, the elderly owner of the property. Pearl invites Maxine into her home and shares her concerns about old age and life's changes. This meeting makes Maxine think about time and its impact on people.

The project is moving forward successfully, and Lorraine, previously skeptical, now wants to appear in the frame. RJ plans to leave after a mishap with the motor, but encounters an aggressive Pearl. Meanwhile, Howard turns to the team with a request to help find his missing wife, who mysteriously disappeared from the house. However, Howard is actually Pearl's accomplice in her crimes.

A terrible massacre breaks out on the farm, and Maxine becomes the only survivor. A day later, the police arrive at the scene, but they are met only by a mountain of corpses left in the wake of the tragedy.

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Ti West presents the film "X", which can be described as an auteur horror film exploring the American dream and the internal human struggle with the fear of death. The plot centers on a group of people striving to realize their ambitions in the film industry, but a collision with reality leads to unexpected and terrible consequences. The film touches on important social and philosophical issues, provoking reflection on what is truly important in life and what sacrifices we are willing to make to achieve our goals. "X" is not only a gripping thriller, but also a profound exploration of human nature, fear, and the desire for self-expression.

Maxine is already in Los Angeles and has achieved significant success in the adult film industry. She actively participates in auditions and landed a role in the project "Puritan II". She is predicted to have a career as a horror star, especially after Molly, who played the lead role in the first part, became incredibly popular. Maxine is eager to replicate this success and establish herself as a talented actress in a genre that attracts the attention of audiences and critics.

Rising from her unexpected success, Maxine shares her news with her loved ones. Her co-worker, Amber, from the film industry invites her to a party in the Hollywood Hills, but Maxine declines due to commitments at her second job. At a strip club, another co-worker, Tabby, also invites her to the same party, but Maxine again says "no." Her decision proves wise, as Amber and Tabby soon become victims of a brutal murder. Meanwhile, the city is gripped by panic over the Night Stalker's crimes, and the murders are being linked to his activities. Maxine finds herself at the center of events, where her life and career collide with dangers and unpredictable consequences.

Maxine returns home and on her way meets a man who threatens her with a knife. However, the presence of a gun inspires confidence and allows her to protect herself. This incident confirms that even in a new city, she is capable of standing up for herself and will not give in to threats.

Returning home, Maxine finds a videotape of the film they tried to shoot on the farm on her doorstep. From that moment on, she begins to be haunted by threats, but she refuses to go to the police, fearing that her past will then be revealed. Meanwhile, someone is trying to do everything possible to uncover the truth.

In search of the truth, Maxine ends up in a house in the Hollywood Hills, where she discovers Molly's body and her father, who turns out to be a serial killer. Ernest Miller, a televangelist, killed to create snuff content designed to expose the sins of Hollywood.

The protagonist seeks to "save" his daughter from the vices of the film industry by preparing a victim. However, his intentions are thwarted by police intervention, which allows Maxine to escape. At the film's conclusion, she kills her father, realizing that his actions were an act of divine intervention. This realization gives her confidence that she will receive divine recognition and achieve success.

Who directed the X trilogy?

The trilogy was directed and written by Ti West. Just a few years ago, his name was unknown to the general public, but today he has become one of the film industry's leading hopes. Ti West's new films are highly anticipated, and his work has attracted the attention of both audiences and critics.

West's first feature film was The Nest (2005). Critics note that it's a confident example of B-horror, where the simple plot and limited budget don't detract from the overall impact. In fact, the film is an interesting take on the legend of vampires who can transform into bats.

The film isn't particularly scary, but it perfectly captures the director's spirit, using the television format to create a multi-layered experience. This combination of Halloween horror, a strange vampire fairy tale, and a typical story about young people trapped in a gloomy house makes it engaging. All subsequent works, including the X trilogy, are also distinguished by the same multi-layered nature, highlighting the director's unique style and his ability to combine genres to create memorable content.

In 2007, Blood Hunt was released, but went unnoticed by a wide audience. However, the following year, the situation changed with the release of The House of the Devil. This film brought attention to Tobias West, who became a well-known representative of mumblecore among fans of the genre. With The House of the Devil, West began actively experimenting with stylization, inspired by the horror films of the 1970s and 1980s. The film not only reflects the specifics of its time but also touches on the themes of the Satanic panic that swept America in the 1980s. Thus, "The House of the Devil" marked a significant milestone in West's career and helped establish him in the world of independent horror cinema.

Shot on 16mm film, director West deliberately utilized the film's signature techniques of the time, such as zoomed-in close-ups, opening credits, and freeze frames. The film was released on VHS, adding to its appeal. Critics praised the film, noting its similarities to genre classics such as The Omen and Rosemary's Baby.

In 2011, West presented the film "Secrets of the Old Hotel", which was warmly received by audiences and critics. Despite this, some experts noted the schematic nature of certain script decisions, for example, the use of strange sounds coming from the basement and garage of the hotel. In 2013, West turned to the found footage subgenre with The Sacrament, which chronicles the tragic events in Jonestown associated with the Peoples Temple sect. This shift to a new format was an interesting experiment in his career, drawing attention to themes of religious fanaticism and social dynamics.

The film was West's first mainstream work, but reviews were mixed. Critics noted the slow pace of the narrative and insufficient attention to the key events of the tragedy. In 2016, West decided to change direction and released the western In a Valley of Violence, starring Ethan Hawke, Taissa Farmiga, Karen Gillan, and John Travolta. However, he soon returned to his favorite genre, horror.

At the end of 2020, information surfaced about West's collaboration with A24. Filming for X took place in New Zealand but was suspended due to the pandemic. During the hiatus, West wrote the script for the prequel, which allowed Pearl to be filmed simultaneously with the first film.

What X-factors can be identified in West's films?

West's trilogy stands out from the modern horror films released in theaters. This is due to several key aspects, which can be called the "X-factors" of its success. These factors include a unique approach to creating a tense atmosphere, deep character development, and original storylines, which make the films memorable and captivating for viewers. West's trilogy attracts the attention of not only genre fans but also critics due to its ability to combine traditional horror elements with new ideas. This combination makes it one of the most talked about series in the world of cinema.

West actively experimented with stylization while working on the trilogy, which became his strong point and attracted the attention of audiences. Stylization became a key advantage of the series, allowing for a deeper understanding of each era. West doesn't limit himself to using historical events as a backdrop; he integrates them into the script, further developing the plot and characters. This approach makes the films not only visually appealing but also rich in historical context, enhancing their impact on the audience.

Pearl's story unfolds in 1918, against the backdrop of the end of World War I and the Spanish flu pandemic. The plot focuses on the heroine, who strives to leave the farm and head to the city. This context is no coincidence, as from the 1920s to the 1950s, agriculture in the United States experienced a serious crisis. Amid economic instability and social change, Pearl's story reflects the human struggle for freedom and the search for a better life.

As a result of military conflict and destruction, farmers found themselves in a difficult financial situation by the 1940s, and most farms were taken over by banks. Pearl lives on one of these farms, awaiting the return of her husband from the front. Her parents, unable to cope with the difficulties, left the farm in disrepair, and now, instead of the former prosperity, she sees only dismal ruins. Surrounded by emptiness and poverty, Pearl dreams of leaving this place.

Maxine and I met in 1979, when the Cold War was in full swing. New York was electing its first black mayor, and terrorists were seizing the US embassy in Tehran. In theaters, audiences saw such iconic films as Apocalypse Now, about the Vietnam War, and Alien, one of the first large-scale science fiction films. This period was a time of significant change and experimentation, making it ideal for new projects and ideas.

The plot of the third installment takes place in the 1980s. The main character, Maxine, arrives in Hollywood in early 1985, when Los Angeles is gripped by fear due to the actions of the Night Stalker. The criminal was arrested only in August of that year and charged with more than 40 murders. The film Maxine XXX highlights his connection to Satanism, which adds an extra layer of tension to the story.

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West carefully applies era markers, paying attention to even the smallest details. This allows him to create an atmosphere that accurately reflects the historical context. Every element in his work is carefully considered, which enhances immersion in the era and makes the viewer's experience more intense. By paying attention to detail, West demonstrates a mastery of the spirit of the times, which is an important aspect of his work.

It is important to me that the film creates the most authentic experience possible. It should not look like a simple game set in the 1980s, but should convey the atmosphere of that time and place. If viewers start to notice how we imitate the era, they'll be distracted by details like, "Oh, they took that! Oh, they did that!" instead of being immersed in the action and fully invested in the story. This is crucial for a film to evoke genuine emotion in the viewer and convey the essence of what's happening on a deeper level.

In an interview with Kinopoisk, Ti West shared his views on modern cinema and the creative process. He discussed the importance of originality in filmmaking and the influence of genres on audience perception. West also spoke about his favorite films and directors, noting how they inspired his own work. In the interview, the director touched on themes of fear and tension in cinema and shared his thoughts on the future of the horror genre. Ti West emphasized that it is important for him to create unique stories that leave a mark on the audience.

For the director, it is important to consider what cinema was like in the 1910s, 1970s, and 1980s. Immersion in a historical era fosters genre stylization, creating a more authentic atmosphere and capturing the spirit of the times. Studying cinema from different decades helps directors draw inspiration and apply different stylistic techniques, making their work more diverse and engaging for audiences.

The "Pearl" part stands out among the other films in the trilogy for its stylistic expressiveness. At times, it resembles a classic technicolor melodrama, and the plot is similar to a typical Disney fairy tale: a young heroine strives to escape her evil stepmother, and a handsome prince comes to her aid. However, "Pearl" is more of a dramatic thriller than a horror film, as the scares don't take center stage, but rather enrich the overall narrative.

"X" is a classic slasher film in the vein of films like "Scream" and "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre." The villains in this film are determined to eliminate all the main characters, and there are impressive pools of blood. Furthermore, director West evokes the atmosphere of the golden age of the American porn industry, making this film an interesting continuation of the theme explored in other genres of the 1970s.

In 1972, Deep Throat was released – the first erotic film to receive a wide theatrical release. The film is imbued with the influence of the then-popular genres of erotic horror and pornographic chic. The plot includes elements of pornography, where the characters are filming, and the elderly Pearl actively harasses them, expressing her experiences about her sexual life. This film became a landmark moment in the history of cinema, opening new horizons for the erotic genre and changing the perception of sexuality in popular culture.

Psycho biddy as a subgenre is not a new concept: stories about old women who lose their minds became popular in the 1960s and 1970s, but back then they were more often thrillers. In recent years, this trend has seen a resurgence, but now old women are being transformed into real monsters. In this context, Pearl's character emerges as a monster, terrifying not only by her appearance but also by what awaits each person at the end of their young and healthy life. Psychobiddy is a fascinating exploration of human nature, the fear of aging, and loss of control, making it relevant and appealing to modern audiences.

The final part of the Maxine XXX trilogy is practically devoid of blood. This can be seen as a pastiche of classic films from Hollywood's Golden Age. However, it's worth noting that this pastiche seems somewhat belated, as the film is set in 1985, while the Golden Age ended in the 1960s. This creates an interesting contradiction between style and time frame, which adds to the film's uniqueness. "Maxine XXX" is a traditional maniac horror film. The film attempts to recreate the aesthetics of 1980s exploitation cinema, but does so only in terms of style. It's worth noting that the third part is more reminiscent of a thriller than a classic horror film. West draws on both classic and lesser-known films that have achieved cult status in the genres it is pastiching. Maxine XXX is the most reference-heavy film: the storyline is reminiscent of Paul Schrader's Hardcore, and the emphasis on violence clearly echoes the work of Brian De Palma, particularly Body Double. Maxine XXX also draws influence from Alfred Hitchcock's cult classic Psycho. This film demonstrates West's mastery of creating a unique cinematic experience that combines classic elements with modern interpretations.

The theme of sexuality permeates all of the films, manifested both in the image of the pornographic actress protagonist and in visual references to sexual adventures. This theme is especially relevant to horror films, where sex and violence are inextricably linked. Sexuality in cinema serves not only to create tension but also to deeply explore human nature and moral dilemmas, making it an important component of the plot. In the context of horror, the combination of these elements helps create a unique atmosphere that captivates the viewer and forces them to reflect on complex social and psychological issues. Nearly all the familiar elements of the horror genre arose from exploitation films. The first slashers were pure exploitation films, which later became a distinct subgenre of horror. Over time, the term "exploitation film" came to encompass violent and frightening films, while sexploitation emerged as a distinct, and quite productive, subgenre. For example, the indie film "The Immoral Mr. Teece" (1959), filmed in this genre, collected more than a million dollars at the box office.

Horror not only includes elements of sexuality, but and is closely intertwined with pornography. West emphasizes that both porn and horror are marginal genres, accessible to non-professionals. Both genres represent the most pronounced examples of genre cinema, where narrative—a stable sequence of images characteristic of each category—comes to the forefront. The interrelationship between these genres allows for the exploration of the boundaries of human perception and emotion, creating a unique experience for viewers.

Story and characters in some works often appear secondary. Excessive violence in pornography and numerous sex scenes in horror are perceived as elements that violate the natural laws of the genre. However, in rare cases, sex and violence can be combined, as in cult horror films such as The Brood (1979), Suspiria (1977), and The Witches (1989). This synthesis overcomes traditional sexploitation trends and provides directors with an opportunity to discuss and condemn sexual violence, raising important questions about morality and ethics in cinema.

Videodrome (1983) intertwines violence with deviant forms of sexuality, including BDSM practices, creating an atmosphere of chaos and madness. This work becomes a unique and profound critique of the moral decline of modern society. Through visual and narrative elements, the film forces the viewer to reflect on the influence of media on human nature and the perception of reality. Videodrome is not just entertainment, but an important work of art that raises pressing questions about the boundaries of human identity and moral norms.

The history of the film industry spans almost a century, and during this time it has been established that violence and sex are the main elements that attract audiences. These aspects are especially effective in the horror genre, which aims to evoke strong emotional reactions in the audience. Horror actively utilizes techniques borrowed from both exploitation cinema, with its obvious low-budget nature, and auteur subgenres such as giallo, which attach aesthetic value to scenes of violence. Thus, the combination of violence and sex in cinema continues to be an important tool for creating a gripping and memorable viewing experience.

In West's trilogy, sex and violence are intertwined in diverse ways, provoking not only shock but also profound reflection. For the elderly Pearl, sexuality becomes an important source of youth, even in the context of sexual violence. She perceives pornographic footage she spied as a vital resource. In contrast, for Maxine, sexuality is familiar and familiar, defining her identity. She decides to become an anti-violence activist because she cannot accept the intertwining of these aspects of life. The trilogy raises important questions about the perception of sexuality, power, and violence, forcing viewers to consider the boundaries and consequences of these topics.

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Best Horror Movies: Top Horror Movies with High Ratings

Horror movies always attract the attention of viewers, immersing them in a world of fear and tension. This list features the best horror films that deserve your attention thanks to their high ratings and positive reviews. These films are capable of not only scaring but also leaving a deep mark on the minds of viewers.

Among the best horror films, we can highlight classics such as Stanley Kubrick's The Shining, which has become an icon of the genre, as well as modern masterpieces such as Tree Pines. and "The Grudge." Each of these films offers a unique approach to creating an atmosphere of horror, using various techniques, from psychological tension to visual effects.

Remember that the best horror films not only scare you, but also make you think about deeper themes such as fear, loneliness, and human vices. These films can be a great way to spend time with friends or reflect on your fears alone.

If you are looking for new experiences and want to enjoy quality content, be sure to check out this list of the best horror films, which will be a great addition to your cinematic experience.

West pays attention to genre aspects, but this negatively affects the depth of character development. The motivations of the main characters sometimes become inconsistent. For example, at the end of the prequel, Pearl, in a state of hysteria, realizes the senselessness of her actions. Yet the trilogy's core elements remain its protagonists.

West develops his storyline around these characters. It's unclear whether this is a conscious choice that prioritizes stylization over script, or whether the director isn't fully aware of the key factors that contribute to his films' success. However, this flaw is minor and doesn't prevent critics from praising the feminist approach in his work.

West's trilogy is notable for its emphasis on the protagonist, reminiscent of the porno-chic genre, which focuses on the actresses—the main stars of the films. In this trilogy, we follow central characters such as Maxine or Pearl, depending on the installment. However, in the horror genre, the emphasis is usually placed differently: in slashers, the focus is always on the killer, while in serial killer stories, the focus is on the perpetrator. Here, we see an inverted structure: the entire trilogy focuses on the victims, which gives it a unique character and forces us to rethink traditional elements of the genre. This approach allows for a deeper exploration of the characters' psychology and experiences, which makes the work more layered and interesting for the viewer.

In cinema, there is a common trope known as the "final girl", which is often found in slasher films. This trope involves a single surviving character at the end of a story who becomes the focus of attention after a series of murders. While the audience initially watches the brutal scenes, the narrative then shifts to this surviving character. This character is often the most sensible and cautious of the characters, avoiding unnecessary conflict and standing out from the rest of the characters. The climax of the final girl trope occurs when the killer acknowledges that the character deserves to live, as seen in films such as Saw and Extraction (2022). This moment highlights not only her resilience but also the moral choices the antagonist makes, adding depth to the plot. In X, Maxine may be seen as an archetype of the final girl from classic slasher films, but in X, this trope completely breaks down. Maxine is not a victim of her circumstances; she is a survivor; she is a survivor. She actively shapes her own destiny. Her dream is to become a star, and along the way, she faces various difficulties and conflicts. Instead of the status of a final girl, she is much more suited to the trope of female rage, which, although not new, has become increasingly relevant in recent decades. This approach emphasizes the strength and independence of the heroine, which makes her character more multi-layered and appealing to viewers.

Angry women are becoming a central theme in modern cinema, and the X trilogy vividly exemplifies this trend. Actress Mia Goth perfectly embodies this archetype. Since her debut in Nymphomaniac (2013), she continues to play memorable and eccentric heroines in the horror genre, such as in Infinity Pool (2023) and the remake of Suspiria (2018). These roles highlight her talent and ability to bring depth to her characters, making her one of the most compelling figures in contemporary cinema.

Female rage characters refuse to remain in the shadows and remain inactive. While they may evoke fear, their anger serves as a powerful tool for achieving happiness and comfort. Sadness and sorrow are more often associated with female characters, as they are more easily feminized, imbuing them with traits traditionally associated with femininity. However, it is through their rage that these characters demonstrate strength and determination, demonstrating that emotional expressiveness can be a driving force for personal transformation.

Female rage is traditionally perceived through a stereotypical lens, where anger and aggression are considered masculine traits. This leads to the fact that heroines who express their emotions can appear more masculine. Throughout history, female rage has either been fetishized or considered something negative. In the modern context, visuals, costumes and makeup become tools to compensate for this perception. While the problem hasn't been completely resolved, stylistic techniques are helping to create a new image in which female rage can be expressed more freely and openly.

Female anger, even when justified, can cause fear in women themselves because of internalized stereotypes. This outburst of rage becomes a kind of catharsis. This is a game-changer for the film industry, as women in horror films have long been portrayed exclusively as victims of violence, not its perpetrators. In this context, the character Pearl appears, who, using an axe, eliminates all her enemies. In traditional films, such a role is usually played by a male protagonist, but here we see a fragile girl take up arms and splatter everything around her with blood. This highlights the changing perception of female characters in the horror genre and opens new horizons for exploring themes of power and aggression in cinema.

Although the trilogy was directed by a male director, one can see a desire to shed the male gaze. A prime example of a film that attempts to utilize the trope of female anger while still retaining patriarchal elements is Jennifer's Body (2009). His marketing strategy was aimed at a male audience, highlighting the limitations of his approach to portraying female characters.

The advertising featured sexualized posters featuring Megan Fox, who played the lead role. Today, the situation has improved significantly, and West's trilogy fits seamlessly into a growing number of works that honestly portray female anger, free from male lenses. Such works include the anime Aggretsuko (2016–2018) and entertainment projects such as Jessica Jones (2015). These examples demonstrate the progress in the representation of female characters and their emotions in the modern media landscape.

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House of the Dragon is not a story about feminism, but a sprawling epic exploring the struggle for power and dynastic conflicts in the world of Westeros. The series revolves around the Targaryen dynasty, its internal struggles, and political intrigue. While the story features strong female characters, their role is not limited to advancing feminist ideas. Instead, the focus is on the complex relationships, ambitions, and aspirations that shape the characters' destinies. The series explores themes of power, betrayal, and family ties, setting aside ideological debates. As a result, House of the Dragon is a captivating drama that immerses viewers in a world where personal ambition and harsh reality reign supreme.

The films X and Pearl have a similar structure and begin with the same shots. This opening scene is followed by recurring plot elements. In a way, Pearl can be seen as an auto-remake. The main characters, played by Mia Goth, are doubles or doppelgangers: she plays the roles of both Pearl and Maxine. Despite the differences in their personalities, both women have similar appearances, and their stories mirror each other. They are united by a single goal and dream, which creates interesting parallels between the characters and strengthens the overall narrative.

The theme of doppelgangers has a long history and is actively used in cinema. An example is Alfred Hitchcock's classic film Vertigo. (1958), where the heroine Judy becomes a duplicate of the deceased Madeline. In the horror genre, duality takes on new connotations, symbolizing otherworldly forces and mysteries. Doubles in such films often embody the characters' fears and internal conflicts, creating an atmosphere of tension and inconsolability. This theme continues to captivate viewers, adding depth and mysticism to the plot.

A doppelgänger is a dark double, symbolizing the evil that permeates the world. In this context, the situation can be reciprocal: for Maxine, her enemy is Pearl, threatening her life and youth. At the same time, for Pearl, Maxine is a terrible reminder of unfulfilled dreams and a wasted life.

Throughout West's trilogy, reality is perceived as double: the heroes have their doubles, the world Hollywood reveals its dark side, where true aspirations intertwine with false ones. Maxine's identity, with its murky past, becomes a key element of the plot. Every detail in this story has its dark side, and it must be explored with caution. The trilogy provokes reflection on the line between reality and illusion, exploring the complexities of human nature and the shadowy aspects of fame.

West masterfully utilizes various tropes, trends, and classic techniques to create not only an aesthetically pleasing triptych but also to raise pressing social issues. Despite some shortcomings, he achieves the desired result. This once again confirms the trend: horror is gradually becoming a new art mainstream, opening up space for such experiments.