Not quite sure why this is billed as a 'slasher' movie as it so much more than that. Yes, it has its moments in the gore department but it certainly wasn't the key element. Rather, it was a study of descent into madness and (there was a most definite nod towards Psycho) how an individual can suddenly switch from rational to psychopathic in an instant to commit unspeakable acts without any qualms whatsoever. The scene with the alligator's egg highlighted this perfectly. I thoroughly enjoyed this film not least because of Mia Goth's performance which was, quite frankly, outstanding. Had this not been a 'horror' I suspect she would have received far more more accolades and awards than she did. I didn't expect much having read reviews but I was pleasantly surprised and once again it demonstrates that you like what you like.

Pearl is desperate for a better life, a life away from the grind and drudgery of the farm, and to escape her ailing father and disapproving mother, a dancing competition at The Church Hall provides an opportunity.

What an unexpected, enjoyable movie this is, a good mix of horror and drama, with a pretty great story mixed in. A repressed girl desperate to escape to a new life, but very much close to the edge.

I had all but forgotten about X, and kept thinking there was something strangely familiar about this, of course Pearl is the prequel to that movie, I think on balance I actually preferred this one.

Some cracking scenes, Pearl's long monologue after losing out in the dancing competition, and that moment where she chats to her father at the river's edge.

A fine performance from Mia Goth, well acted all round.

7/10.

Pearl is an absorbing character study of a woman who mentally and emotionally unravels, leading to devastating effects for those closest to her.

It is a well crafted story, cleverly peeling back the character of Pearl and providing a great contextualisation to the events of Ti West's X. That being said it totally stands up as a film in its own right for those who haven't seen X.

The highlight is the leading performance from Mia Goth. I just can't get over how good she is as Pearl. She is utterly compelling and gives one of the most intriguing and punchy performances I've seen. She is undoubtedly a star and is now one of those actors whose films I will always seek out as I know I'll be getting a magnetic performance. It shouldn't go unmentioned that the supporting cast (limited as they are) are all terrific, but this is Goth's show from start to end.

Ti West puts such a distinct and vibrant stamp on this film, he really directs the hell out it. It is visually arresting with a vivid colour palette and a retro, period feel to it all that works so well. Simply put I just loved looking at every second of this film. The music as well is superb. It sets the tone for the whole thing perfectly.

Ti West is well on his way to creating not only one of the best horror trilogies of all time, but perhaps one of the greatest trilogies full stop.