‘MaXXXine’ Review: Mia Goth’s Star Gets the Sendoff She Deserves

In today’s film industry, even a slasher and adult-themed franchise can create its own “universe,” and “MaXXXine” wraps up an unexpected trilogy from writer-director Ti West and actress Mia Goth. The film elevates itself with a higher-caliber cast and serves as a tribute to the gritty movies of 1980s Hollywood, though it falls short as a mystery centered on its ambitious protagonist.

Goth reprises her role as Maxine Minx, an adult film star who survived a rural massacre depicted in “X,” with its origins explored in the prequel “Pearl.” Now in Los Angeles, Maxine is striving to break into legitimate films, despite facing protests and accusations of satanism related to her latest horror project. She maintains her determination with her mantra, “I will not accept a life I do not deserve,” while discovering that someone is pursuing her. A private detective, played by Kevin Bacon, is on her trail, linking to her past and providing continuity with “X.”

The tension also arises amid the high-alert atmosphere of 1985, with the Night Stalker killer still at large. Maxine’s colleagues in the adult film industry are focused on advancing their careers, seemingly indifferent to the surrounding danger.

The supporting cast includes Halsey, Giancarlo Esposito, Elizabeth Debicki from “The Crown,” and Bobby Cannavale and Michelle Monaghan as detectives trying to uncover what Maxine knows about the ongoing crime spree, which only heightens her vigilance and determination.

Goth once again transforms her character into a powerful force, but the film’s standout moments are its nostalgic touches, featuring songs like “Bette Davis Eyes” and “St. Elmo’s Fire,” along with Angelyne billboards and references to films like “Dressed to Kill.”

While the theatrical box office has seen a resurgence this summer, horror remains a reliable genre, especially given the lower-budget charm of films like “X” and “Pearl.” West adds some wit to the gore, though the conclusion may not fully live up to the buildup. Nevertheless, “MaXXXine” offers enough genre nostalgia and a fitting finale for Goth’s character, making it worth a watch.

“MaXXXine” debuted on July 5 in U.S. theaters and is rated R.