Hi all!

Today I am going to be ranking Ti West’s ‘X’ trilogy! Now that MaXXXine has entered the world, it’s time to break these films down and share my honest thoughts on them. The movies span several time periods that ultimately link together. Through vibrant colours, stunning cinematography, a stacked cast of incredible actors, maximum gore and violence, we follow a continuing, self-referential storyline that always culminates in bloodshed. Not to mention, Mia Goth‘s phenomenal performances at the centre of them all. Without further ado, from favourite to least favourite, let’s get into it!

1.) Pearl 

In first place, we have Pearl – the story that started it all. It is sometimes referred to as a prequel for X. In 1918, Pearl is a young woman living with her immigrant German parents in Texas, while her husband, Howard, serves in World War I. Trapped on an isolated farm, she must tend to her ailing father, under the watch of her critical mother. Lusting for the glamorous life she’s seen in the movies, Pearl’s temptations and repressions collide. Pearl is my favourite film in the trilogy because it is the best showing of Mia Goth’s acting. Her deranged, unpredictable character reminded me so much of Annie Wilkes from Misery. At the end, she delivers a 7-minute monologue, displaying a full range of emotions. I could not believe Mia wasn’t nominated for an Academy Award. Those closing credits alone deserved a win. Furthermore, this instalment is visually stunning to watch. The bright red of her dress, the sky blue in her bow, the lush green of the farm, the yellow straw in the cornfield etc. It is beyond beautiful. We needed this backstory to truly appreciate and understand the inner workings of Pearl’s mind. She is so desperate to be somebody, despite her psychological limitations, that you almost feel sorry for her. That is how you deliver a multi-faceted character. I love her so much. 

2.) X

In second place, we have X. This was the first film in the trilogy to be released. Set in 1979, the film follows a cast and crew who gather to make a pornographic film on an elderly couple’s rural Texas property. However, they soon find themselves threatened by the homicidal pair, one half being Pearl (see above). If you love the original Texas Chainsaw Massacre from 1974, this movie will give you all the nostalgia. It’s sexy, violent and shocking. Furthermore, it introduced me to Mia Goth. The world instantly fell in love with her, hence the rapid franchise expansion. This was such a fun movie and one that easily retained a place on my favourites list for 2022. The psychological battle between Pearl and Maxine Minx (played by the same actress) continues on in the sequel. I love that no amount of time or distance can separate them from each other. If you love an artistic slasher, X is absolutely for you! It’s extremely rewatchable and a gory, good time. 

3.) MaXXXine 

Last but certainly not least, we have MaXXXine – the latest, and at this stage, last film in the franchise. Set in the 1980’s, adult film star and aspiring actress, Maxine Minx, finally gets her big break. However, as a mysterious killer stalks the starlets of Los Angeles, a trail of blood threatens to reveal her sinister past. This instalment sheds light on the darker sides of Hollywood. It also references real-life serial killer, the Night Stalker. Out of the three movies, this one has the best collective cast and opening scene – which set the tone for the journey to come. My favourite moments took place at the Univeral Studios backlot. We saw our lead character interact with the infamous Bates Motel and mansion. I love how Ti West merged Pearl and Psycho, with the aforementioned villain appearing at the window, taunting Maxine. The reason it’s ranked last is because of the significant tonal shift. Pearl and X take place at the same farm, linking them more closely together. The third movie feels more like a stand-alone in the saga. Having said that, I still thoroughly enjoyed it. It was entertaining, mysterious and thrilling. Mia Goth, as always, did not disappoint. 

 Thank you so much for reading! Please let me know your thoughts on the ‘X’ trilogy and how you would rank the films.

Peace & Love xoxo