Dive into Darkness with “Longlegs”: A Psychological Thriller Unveiled
News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/13th July 2024
When the skies darken and clouds gather, what better way to grip your umbrellas than to immerse yourself in a spine-chilling film that leaves you unsettled long after the theater lights come on?
“Longlegs” isn’t your typical horror flick filled with gratuitous gore seen on streaming platforms. Set amidst the gloomy Pacific Northwest of Oregon, USA, this film takes a slow, suspenseful stroll through a landscape where a serial killer lurks behind the doors of seemingly ordinary homes.
The plot revolves around the enigmatic “Longlegs,” a killer who sends chilling letters adorned with occult symbols and ominous birthday greetings, foretelling grisly deaths within families. Even the formidable FBI finds itself stymied by the cryptic messages and relentless threats. Rookie agent Lee Harker, portrayed by Maika Monroe, brings an uncanny psychic edge to decoding these letters, much to the frustration of her boss, Agent Carter, played by Blair Underwood.
Nicolas Cage, known for his roles in “Face/Off” and “National Treasure,” delivers a performance that defies expectations in “Longlegs.” His portrayal of the titular character is hauntingly effective, evoking fear with a frail yet menacing tone in the simplest of phrases like “Happy Birthday!” His presence, though sparse on screen, explodes with insanity, leaving viewers wary of even their own doorsteps.
But what financial lessons can be gleaned from a horror movie like “Longlegs”?
Fear in Investing is Real Just as the FBI faces the terror of deciphering Longlegs’ cryptic messages, investors often confront their own fears—volatile markets, potential losses, and the inundation of conflicting advice. Warren Buffett’s adage rings true: “If you cannot control your emotions, you cannot control your money.” Amid market downturns, while many opt for safer investments like gold, astute investors seek opportunities in undervalued stocks of solid companies.
Gifts and Taxes Much like Longlegs’ mysterious motives, unexpected gifts like property or stocks can present financial challenges, including tax implications. Understanding the tax burden associated with gifts can prevent unintended financial strain on loved ones. Educating oneself about gifting rules and financial planning ensures that generosity doesn’t lead to unforeseen fiscal consequences.
Beware of Affinity Scams In “Longlegs,” families unwittingly open their doors to danger, reflecting real-life affinity scams that exploit trust within communities. Similar to Bernie Madoff’s infamous Ponzi scheme, affinity scams prey on shared affiliations, persuading victims through communal trust. Vigilance and financial literacy are crucial defenses against such fraudulent schemes.
Directed by Oz Perkins, whose lineage includes the iconic Anthony Perkins of “Psycho” fame, “Longlegs” offers a psychological journey akin to navigating the Amazon—calm yet menacing, with sudden twists that upend expectations. This film isn’t just a cinematic experience; it’s a thought-provoking exploration of fear and vulnerability, urging viewers to navigate their own financial landscapes with caution and clarity.
In conclusion, “Longlegs” isn’t merely a horror film; it’s a reflection of deeper anxieties and strategic lessons, reminding us that sometimes the scariest threats lurk not in the shadows, but in the decisions we make with our money.
