Nicolas Cage has recently opened up about his latest role in "Longlegs," where he portrays a disturbed serial killer with an eerie connection to the color white. Unlike his usual method of delving into dark psychological depths for roles, Cage revealed that his inspiration came unexpectedly close to home - from memories of his mother, who battled schizophrenia and severe depression until her passing in 2021.
Reflecting on his childhood, Cage recalled moments when his mother's behavior, influenced by her mental health struggles, left lasting impressions. He vividly described an incident where, as a young child, he innocently stumbled upon his mother applying Noxzema cold cream. Her sudden movement startled him, and the stark whiteness of the cream against her face left a haunting impression on his young mind.
"Longlegs," directed by Oz Perkins, revolves around FBI Agent Lee Harker (played by Maika Monroe) investigating old, unsolved murders that resurface in the 1990s. Cage's character, the elusive killer dubbed "Longlegs," is shrouded in mystery and terrorizes with an uncanny fixation on the color white. Cage explained that his character perceives white as a potent force, something he intuitively understands rather than questions deeply.
In preparing for the role, Cage drew parallels between his character's torment and the struggles his mother faced. He described the character as a tragic figure, tormented by inner voices much like those his mother experienced. Cage's performance in "Longlegs" thus became deeply personal, as he sought to channel his childhood experiences and empathize with his mother's emotional journey.
The film's marketing has capitalized on the suspense and horror elements, keeping Cage's appearance under wraps to heighten anticipation. A recently released clip showcasing Harker's first encounter with Longlegs used Monroe's actual heart rate to convey the intense fear induced by the killer's presence.
Cage, known for his diverse roles spanning action, drama, and now horror, has expressed concerns about the future of technology and its potential to manipulate actors' likenesses. He admitted feeling a sense of unease about the growing use of artificial intelligence in Hollywood, fearing it could lead to the exploitation of his image without his consent.
Despite his apprehensions, "Longlegs" has been well-received by horror enthusiasts, boasting an impressive 91% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The film's nationwide release has been met with excitement from fans eager to experience Cage's chilling portrayal and Perkins' atmospheric direction on the big screen.
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