The Cult Horror Film ‘X’ Gains Popularity Among Movie Enthusiasts

In recent discussions among film enthusiasts, the 2022 horror film ‘X’ directed by Ti West has gained significant attention. This particular movie has been highlighted on the film rating site Letterboxd, where a member urged audiences to experience the film at least once in their lifetime as part of a bucket-list collection under the theme “horror movies everyone should watch at least once.”

The movie ‘X’ follows a group of young filmmakers who venture into rural Texas with the intent to create an adult film. However, their project takes a terrifying turn as they are forced to fight for their survival in response to a series of lethal threats. The film forms part of a trilogy, alongside titles ‘Pearl’ and the upcoming ‘MaXXXine’ scheduled for release in 2024.

Written, directed, produced, and edited by Ti West, ‘X’ was brought to life under the banner of A24 Productions. The film stars an ensemble cast including Jenna Ortega, Mia Goth, Brittany Snow, and Kid Cudi. Jenna Ortega’s role as Lorraine, initially working behind the scenes, evolves as her character develops an interest in the creation of an adult film, leading her to become part of the narrative.

Ortega shared with IndieWire that her decision to engage with the project was driven by the script’s unique approach. “I had never read anything like it before, and that was super-enticing to me,” she said. Ortega expressed her admiration for the transformative arc of her character throughout the film, noting that the experience was distinct from her previous works.

The reception to ‘X’ has been notably positive, with its Tomatometer score standing at a robust 94 percent on Rotten Tomatoes. However, the audience reactions, as reflected by the Popcornmeter, present a more mixed view at 76 percent. Critics and viewers have been sharply divided: while some label it as “Just another slasher film,” others praise its exceptional cast and atmosphere.

Among the myriad of reviews, what stands out is the film’s daring approach to themes of sexuality and mortality, with a particularly unique cinematographic style. As one reviewer noted, “Ti West may have just crafted the best slasher of the last ten years, maybe twenty,” applauding it as a love letter to a bygone horror era, defined by its authenticity in horror storytelling.