If someone were to ask me to choose my favorite genre, I would definitely say horror. But thrillers will always have a place in my heart, and that includes movies with an unpredictable protagonist (technically, an antagonist) who is destined to go on a rampage.
One such movie that fits that description perfectly is “Pearl,” and it’s hitting one of the best streaming services today (August 16). Having already seen it, I can confidently say that it’s one of the most haunting movies I’ve seen in a long time. Trust me, you won’t expect anything from what happens—Mia Goth’s incredible performance as Pearl will have you wide-eyed for the entire duration.
What sets “Pearl” apart from traditional horror thrillers is its ability to blend classic horror with an intense character study. It explores the dark corners of ambition, isolation, and madness. If you haven’t seen it yet, it’s a movie you need to add to your Netflix watch list, and here’s why.
What is “Pearl” about?
Watch on
“Pearl” is a psychological horror thriller that serves as a prequel to the film “X,” both directed by Ti West. The film focuses on the story of Pearl, the evil old woman from “X,” with Mia Goth playing her as a young woman from the 1910s.
The story is set during the time of the Spanish Flu and World War I. Pearl lives on an isolated farm with her strict, authoritarian mother and her ailing father. Pearl dreams of escaping her oppressive life to become a movie star. However, her ambitions are thwarted by her deep psychological problems and increasingly violent tendencies.
The film explores in both horrific and beautiful ways Pearl's descent into madness as she struggles with her dark desires, social pressures, and her desire for fame. All of these challenges ultimately encourage her to commit horrific acts throughout the film.
“Pearl” captures the dawn of cinema
Barely five minutes into the film, I knew Pearl was going to be a staple of the genre. It has some of the most incredible aesthetics and atmosphere when it comes to showing the societal changes of the early 20th century, a time when movies were going from being novelties to being powerful cultural forces.
Pearl’s success upon its release was due to its masterful interweaving of this historical context with a deeply personal and disturbing narrative. The film resonates with modern audiences not only because of its thrilling elements, but also because of its exploration of timeless themes like ambition, repression, and fear of the dark. Pearl’s success is due in large part to the incredible talent of Mia Goth, whose powerful performance as Pearl is the foundation of the film’s success. She embodies the desperation and madness of a character who is both a product of her time and an enduring example of unfulfilled dreams.
I'm not the only one who thinks this movie is truly excellent, given that critics have given it a high 92% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Linda Marric of the Jewish Chronicle said, “Fresh, subversive, and infused with delicious irony and dark humor. Goth continues to impress.”
Meanwhile, AV Club's Phil Pirrello said that “with Pearl, writer-director Ti West embraces and elevates what horror films can do, in a way that further solidifies its position as one of the best things to ever happen to the genre.”
Even the audience was impressed, giving “Pearl” a high score of 83%. Some called it “the best of the trilogy,” while others simply said, “Mia Goth, you're a star.” Honestly, I'd watch this movie again just for Goth.
Watch “Pearl” on Netflix Now
If you’re a fan of psychological thrillers that stay with you long after the credits roll, “Pearl” should definitely be your next movie. As a prequel to “X” and part of the trilogy that concludes with “MaXXXine,” it really takes the time to dive deep into the origins of the new horror antagonist. Plus, with its stunning visuals, dark storyline, and Mia Goth’s unforgettable performance, “Pearl” is one of those rare films that will leave you both unsettled and deeply impressed.
Not a fan? Check out what else is coming to Netflix in August 2024 and the best movies currently available on the streaming service.
Stream “Pearl” on Netflix now and find out why it's one of the most talked about horror thrillers of 2022.