Pearl Movie Review: Themes, Characters, and the Cycle of Dreams and Madness

Pearl: A Technicolor Scream of Broken Dreams and Farmhouse Noir

Pearl stands out as a rare cinematic villain. She isn't just a monster. She embodies madness itself, lingering in the sun-soaked fields of a 1918 Texas farm. "Pearl," a prequel to Ti West's "X," digs into unsettling horror. It reveals a mind unraveling due to ambition, isolation, and deep-seated rage. Imagine "The Wizard of Oz" twisted. Instead of Dorothy’s adventure, we witness a budding psychopath. The yellow brick road transforms into shattered dreams. The cowardly lion becomes an unfortunate pig.

The Point of it All: Hollywood Hates You (Unless You're Independent)

Pearl's Yearning: Chorus Lines and Cabin Fever

Picture being stuck on a 1918 farm during the Spanish Flu. Pearl's mother is no helper; she resembles Nurse Ratched more than Mary Poppins. Pearl yearns to twirl into the chorus line, to escape her mundane life. Ruth scorns these dreams. Her disdain forms a barrier that Pearl cannot break through. The farm’s suffocating isolation twists Pearl's hopes into rage. Boredom morphs into a cage closing in on her.

Madness Takes Center Stage: A Descent into the Deep End

"Pearl" isn’t a typical slasher throwing jump scares. It’s a psychological dive into her mind's murky depths. We don’t just watch her commit murder; we see her unravel slowly. The film captures mental illness’s insidious nature. It portrays how dreams can warp perceptions and devour a person from within. The focus shifts from bloody deeds to our fragile human psyche's breaking point.

Murderous Intentions: More Than Just a Bad Day

Pearl isn't experiencing merely a bad week. Her “tendencies” run deep within her being. The film shows her brutal actions with clarity. It isn’t gratuitous violence, but a stark portrayal of how far Pearl will go to silence anyone in her way. This is not a simple "psycho killer" tale. It depicts an existential threat manifesting with rural tools.

Dreams vs. Dust: The Crushing Weight of Reality

Pearl's story serves as a cautionary tale. It reminds viewers that dreams, especially Hollywood's, clash with reality’s unforgiving wall. Her pursuit of stardom is tragically misguided. The film compares Pearl's constructed fantasy with the gritty truth of her life. This contradiction fuels her desperation and descent into madness. It's the tale of wanting the moon but ending up with dirt.

Oink Oink, Goes the Pig: A Symbol of Rotting Dreams

The pig in "Pearl" goes beyond being background fauna. It symbolizes Pearl's deteriorating mind and decaying dreams. As Pearl’s hopes rot, so does the pig. This visual connection becomes a constant reminder that something is very wrong in Pearl's world, not just the manure around.

The Grand Finale: Killing Spree and Domestic Bliss?

The ending of "Pearl" is shocking. It’s a chaotic blend of violence and unsettling domesticity. In her bloody quest for dreams, Pearl kills anyone seen as an obstacle. After the carnage, she tidies her home. She prepares for her husband Howard’s return, as if nothing has happened. This depiction of denial chills and reveals her fractured mind.

What Becomes of Pearl? The Cycle Continues

What happens to Pearl? Does she evade suspicion? The ending leaves questions lingering. Pearl is left in complacency, ready to continue her life built on deceit and corpses. The film avoids neat conclusions or justice. Instead, it evokes unease about the ongoing cycle of violence and madness.

The X-Verse: Pearl, X, and MaXXXine – A Family Affair (Sort Of)

The beauty of "Pearl" goes beyond its story. It connects intricately to the "X" universe. This film is not merely a prequel; it flips "X" on its head.

Pearl: The Anti-X

"X" is a gritty slasher set in the 70s, while "Pearl" presents a vibrant Technicolor dream. This visual brilliance stands in stark contrast to "X." Thematically, "Pearl" explores its origins, explaining how she became the killer from "X." It highlights ambition's dark side, showcasing the desperate desire for escape.

Pearl: Protagonist and Antagonist Rolled into One

Pearl serves as both protagonist and antagonist in her tale. We are drawn into her desires and at times feel sympathy for her struggles. Yet we also see her monstrous actions and moral decay, which makes her unsettlingly complex. We witness a character's tragedy as darkness consumes her.

MaXXXine: The Sequel We're Waiting For

"Pearl" serves as a prequel, establishing the world for "MaXXXine," which continues Maxine's story after events similar to "Texas Chainsaw Massacre." It becomes the dramatic finishing act in this sad cinematic story.

MaXXXine and Pearl: A Tangled Web

The connection between "MaXXXine" and "Pearl" goes beyond shared characters; it reveals deeper thematic links. Maxine escapes but carries part of Pearl with her, reflecting the darkness she experiences. "X" explores parallels between Pearl and Maxine, intertwining their stories. "MaXXXine" aims to delve deeper into this trauma, exploring echoes of Pearl’s madness.

Maxine's future is not merely a sequel; it carries on a nightmare.

Character Breakdown: Investigating Pearl

Pearl is not your usual horror villain. She lacks the mask and supernatural flair. Instead, she is deeply flawed and psychologically complex. Her monstrous actions stem from human desires and vulnerabilities. To understand her, we need to dissect her psyche.

Pearl's State of Mind: Psychopathy?

Let's discuss an essential aspect of the farmhouse: Pearl’s mental health. The film suggests that Pearl shows signs of psychopathy. This evaluation helps us grasp her chilling effectiveness in horror.

Pearl’s Psychopathy Checklist

What are these "signs"? One clear sign is her lack of empathy. Pearl acts with pure self-interest, ignoring the well-being of others. She manipulates and deceives to control people around her. Additionally, she shows impulsivity and a lack of remorse. Pearl acts on impulses without thought of consequences and feels no guilt for her violence. These traits hint at a deeply disturbed individual whose moral compass is broken.

Age and Context: A Timeless Woman

"Pearl" is set in 1918. Our main character is in her twenties, facing an unfulfilled life. This historical context holds great importance. 1918 was a tough time for women, especially on farms. Opportunities were scarce, and social expectations were strict. Pearl's youth clashes with her confinement and frustration.

Unraveling Pearl's Actions: Motives Behind Her Choices

Understanding Pearl involves deciphering her motivations, the forces driving her acts.

Medicine as a Means of Escape

Why does Pearl sneak her father’s morphine? It’s about more than a buzz. It’s an act of escapism. The morphine offers an escape from farm life, transforming her reality into a fantasy. It serves as a rebellion against her controlling mother. The glamorous world of cinema merges with these drug-induced fantasies. The medicine becomes a key, unlocking a world where Pearl can be more than a farm girl.

Maxine: Obsession and Youth

Pearl's fixation on Maxine in "X" runs deeper than mere creepiness. It stems from her loss and longing. She envies Maxine, who reflects a lost youth. Maxine represents what Pearl could have been or perhaps once was. Pearl remains trapped in the past, haunted by memories of a stolen life. The photographs and glances portray her regret and desire to reclaim what she lost.

Pearl and Maxine: Two Aspects of the Same Coin?

Let's discuss Mia Goth's portrayal. Yes, Mia Goth plays both Pearl and Maxine. But are they the same? Are they connected by family?

Double Goth, Separate Characters

No, Pearl and Maxine are not the same character. Despite being played by the same actress, they are distinct within the trilogy. They exist in different periods and represent different life stages. They explore ambition, desire, and the shadows of the American Dream. Goth’s performance showcases their parallels while keeping them as unique characters.

Maxine: The Survivor

Maxine is the final girl, the survivor in "X." She remains present and vibrant. She's fighting for what she desires in the 1970s. Maxine’s character embodies youthful rebellion, aiming for success even against danger.

Pearl: A Haunting Presence

Pearl represents the past, haunting the present. She serves as the origin story for the monster in "X." Pearl embodies dreams' decay, bitterness of regret, and consequences of unchecked ambition. She is a cautionary figure for twisted desires.

The Touch: Longing and Jealousy

That unsettling scene by the homestead where Pearl reaches for Maxine reveals jealousy. This moment captures her longing for Maxine's youthful vitality. Pearl sees everything she has lost in Maxine. The touch embodies her yearning for lost youth and dreams. It’s raw desire that highlights the gap between their realities.

No Family Ties: Only Twisted Parallels

Are Maxine and Pearl related? Are they mother and daughter? No. They are not connected by blood. Both "Pearl" and "X" confirm this. Their bond is thematic, showcasing desires and ambition's dark side. They share trauma and echoes of violence without familial ties. Their connection illustrates twisted parallels rather than lineage.

Themes and Symbols: Unpacking "Pearl"

"Pearl" functions as more than just a narrative; it's woven with rich themes and symbols. Understanding these elements reveals deeper film meanings.

The Rotting Pig: Symbol of Decay

The rotting pig deserves attention. It serves as a symbol, visually representing Pearl’s deteriorating psyche. The pig's decay mirrors Pearl's mental breakdown as her dreams turn rotten. It is a reminder that something is wrong, highlighting both her internal struggles and external world.

Masked Identities: Hidden Truths

Masks hold importance in "Pearl," especially in its 1918 setting during the Spanish Flu pandemic. They symbolize hidden identities and the challenge of seeing people's true selves. A projectionist’s comment to Pearl emphasizes this theme. Ti West critiques the masks people wear, showcasing barriers to true understanding, particularly with someone like Pearl.

Ambition's Hazard: Path to Ruin

"Pearl" serves as a parable about unchecked ambition's dangers. Pearl's relentless drive for stardom turns destructive. The film warns against ambition devoid of empathy and morality. It illustrates how pursuing dreams at any cost leads to tragedy. Pearl’s journey depicts how twisted ambition transforms into something monstrous.

The Harsh Light of Hollywood: Indie Cinema's Hope?

As noted earlier, "Pearl" critiques Hollywood’s realities while promoting authentic indie cinema.

Independent cinema portrays disillusionment. Pearl’s dream of Hollywood clashes with harsh realities. The film hints artistic freedom lies in indie filmmaking rather than mainstream glamour. Ti West, known for indie horror, emphasizes real storytelling versus manufactured dreams.

"Song of Evil": Symbolism Lost?

The mention of "Song of Evil" hints at John Steinbeck's "The Pearl." This phrase is not relevant to "Pearl." A “song of evil” symbolizes destruction and danger. In "Pearl," escalating tension and madness form a metaphorical track of dread, predicting the tragedy ahead and Pearl’s unleashed violence.

Pearl: An LGBTQ+ Misinterpretation?

The Pearl Metaphor: Hidden Truths

The title "Pearl" suggests symbolism. Pearls represent beauty formed from irritation within an oyster. Pearl reflects a distorted version, revealing truths from trauma. Unlike traditional symbols of purity, she embodies corruption from darkness. This irony emphasizes the divide between beauty and reality.

Howard: The Stayer (Or the Fool?)

Howard, Pearl’s husband, is often overlooked. His character is key to understanding the film's disturbing dynamics with Pearl.

Why Stay? Fear and Madness

Why does Howard remain with Pearl amid her violence? The answer is complex, not romantic.

Survival Instincts: The Fear Factor

Fear plays a significant role. Pearl is unstable and violent. Leaving may mean death for Howard. Staying could be a survival tactic, a choice between life and death. It’s like a hostage scenario where compliance is key.

Acceptance: Disturbing Reality

There’s a grim acceptance. Howard adjusts to Pearl's madness rather than fleeing. He witnesses her violence and starts to adapt. This isn't love; it’s a chilling acceptance of their abnormal life, where her monstrous acts become normalized.

Shared Madness: Descending Together?

A disturbing thought arises of shared madness. Howard's long exposure to Pearl’s psychosis may distort his reality. His choice to stay and pretend normality hints at his mental decline. Their relationship is toxic and mutually destructive, a shared journey into madness.

Did Howard Know? The Sister Mystery

The film raises lingering questions. Did Howard know Pearl’s crimes? Specifically, did he know about Mitzy’s murder?

The Dinner Table Horror

Howard returned from war to a horrific scene. Pearl's parents were dead, arranged grotesquely at the dining table. This shocking reality revealed Pearl’s depravity, shattering any remaining illusions for Howard.

Mitzy’s Fate: An Ominous Question

There's ambiguity regarding Howard's awareness of Mitzy's murder. Did he suspect Pearl killed his sister? Did he ignore the truth? This uncertainty adds a dark layer to Howard's character and the film's atmosphere. Some secrets dig deeper than others.

Critical Reception: Divided Opinions

"Pearl" elicits strong reactions. Critics and audiences have polarized views, giving high praise or fierce criticism. This film chooses a unique path, capturing some while alienating others.

Is "Pearl" Good? Critics Respond

Overall, critics have responded positively, yet with noted issues. The film is seen as ambitious, though some criticize specific stylistic decisions.

Accolades: Performance and Cinematography

Three aspects drive praise for "Pearl": Mia Goth's performance, cinematography, and depth as a character study.

Mia Goth’s Performance: Captivating

Mia Goth’s portrayal of Pearl garners universal acclaim. Critics admire her ability to reflect both vulnerability and madness. Her performance is captivating and unforgettable. She embodies Pearl, representing the film's dark core.

Visual Style: Striking Aesthetics

The film’s visuals are stunning. The vibrant colors and period setting create a strong aesthetic. It delivers horror that mesmerizes while depicting disturbing themes. The contrast between beauty and grotesque deepens its unsettling impact.

Character Study: Beyond Scares

"Pearl" also stands out as a character-driven horror film beyond typical scares. It explores a complex psyche, ambition, and the effects of isolation. It offers a deeper experience that engages the mind, moving past mere shocks.

Critiques: Pacing and Logic

Despite praise, "Pearl" faced criticism over pacing and certain sequences deemed awkward.

Pacing Issues: Slow Burn or Boring?

Pacing appears uneven, especially early on. Some find the slow build disengaging. While it rewards patience, it frustrates those seeking quick thrills.

Awkward Moments: Logical Breaks

Certain scenes feel over-the-top at times, breaking the film's immersive spell. These subjective critiques can take viewers out of the realism, disrupting the tension built throughout.

Is "Pearl" Scary? Subjective Terror

Is "Pearl" truly frightening? It depends on your definition of horror. If you want jump scares, you may left disappointed. "Pearl" offers psychological unease that lingers. This horror does not rely on shocks but builds a sense of dread and discomfort that stays with you.

Mind. A glimpse into darkness. It explores the human psyche. This is psychological horror at its finest. Or unsettling, depending on your tolerance for dread.

Beyond A24: Other Pearls in the Cinematic and Literary Sea

As we conclude our dive into A24’s "Pearl," let's note the title isn’t unique. Other "Pearls" exist, each with its distinct story.

Pearl (2010): A Real-Life Flight of Fancy

This "Pearl" contrasts sharply with A24’s horror. It tells the true story of Pearl Carter Scott, the youngest licensed pilot in US history.

Oklahoma Skies: 1920s Aviation Dreams

Set in 1920s Oklahoma, this "Pearl" is far from the Texas farm of the horror film. It charts Pearl Carter Scott's rise from age 12 through adulthood in aviation.

Family and Flight: A Heartwarming Tale

This "Pearl" emphasizes family, determination, and flight's thrill. It's a heartwarming story. It celebrates a pioneer and her love for the skies. Quite different from our earlier pearl, don't you think?

The Pearl (Novella): Steinbeck's Parable of Greed

"The Pearl" by John Steinbeck is a classic novella, unlike the horror film or the biographical drama. Steinbeck’s "Pearl" is a parable about wealth's corrupting influence and greed's dangers.

Passenger on the Pearl: Flight from Slavery

"Passenger on the Pearl" is a non-fiction book by Winifred Conkling. It recounts a teenager’s daring escape from slavery in 1848. This "Pearl" is about courage, resilience, and freedom.

The Pearl: Forbidden Love in Imperial Russia

"The Pearl: A True Tale of Forbidden Love in Catherine the Great's Russia" is a historical romance. It explores a forbidden love affair in the dangerous world of imperial Russia. This "Pearl" tells a passionate tale of intrigue and drama.

While A24’s "Pearl" may be the latest and most unsettling "Pearl," the word has numerous meanings and associations. These span genres, periods, and emotions. Each "Pearl" offers its unique story.