Museum Collections Specialist Ellie Norman recommends Pearl (2022).
Ti West’s Pearl (rated R) is a gripping origin story that provides a chilling and emotionally charged exploration of the title character’s descent into madness.
As a prequel to West’s 1970s-set X, the film stands alone as a twisted psychological drama, focusing on Pearl’s repressed life in 1918 Texas while her husband is away at war. Stifled by the demands of caring for her ill father and her overbearing mother, Pearl finds solace only in the world of cinema, where her dreams of stardom fuel both her longing for escape and her growing instability.
While marketed as a “Technicolor slasher,” Pearl is more of a slow-burn character study than a conventional horror film. It delves deep into Pearl’s psyche, portraying her as a tragic figure whose unfulfilled dreams and isolation drive her toward violence.
This existential fear of being stuck in a meaningless life, with ambitions slipping away, is universal, making Pearl’s story hauntingly relatable even as it spirals into chaos.
Mia Goth delivers a mesmerizing performance, portraying Pearl with a perfect blend of innocence, desperation, and rage. Her portrayal elevates the film, making Pearl both sympathetic and terrifying. The supporting cast, though limited, complements her intensity, but this is Goth’s film from start to finish.
Visually, Pearl is a feast for the eyes. West’s direction and use of vibrant, retro-inspired cinematography evoke classic films like The Wizard of Oz, while the score amplifies the film’s unsettling tone. For fans of X, Pearl offers a fascinating backstory, but it also stands tall as a poignant and disturbing tale of unfulfilled dreams and unchecked desire.
Just in time for Halloween, Pearl makes for perfect viewing during horror movie season, blending slasher thrills with unsettling psychological tension. It’s available to check out from The Community Library’s video section and also accessible on the streaming service Kanopy, free with your library card.
