Summary
While Mia Goth is electric throughout theXfranchise, there is one particular scene inPearlthat I find to beher best performance.TheXtrilogyhas come to an end with the release ofMaXXXine,and it is no secret thatMia Goth plays both Pearl and Maxinethroughout the films. The actor plays different versions of the characters throughout time and, while I think they are all great performances and characters, there is one I think Goth did best.
From my perspective,Mia Goth plays more than just two characters.After all, she plays a young and an old version of Pearl in different films, and Maxine has very different arcs inXandMaXXXine. Goth also was her own scene partner in a lot ofX,and this only solidifies her great performances throughout theXfilms. And yet, while the franchise is not short of scenarios that allow Goth to shine, one moment in particular demonstrates why she was the perfect fit for Ti West’s boundary-pushing series.
Why Mia Goth Plays Both Maxine & Pearl In X
Mia Goth plays both Maxine and Pearl in Ti West’s slasher movie X, as well as prequel Pearl, and her dual roles emphasize the horror’s core themes.
The “I’m A Star” Scene Proves Young Pearl Is Mia Goth’s Best Character In The X Franchise
This Heart-Wrenching Scene In Pearl Is Mia Goth’s Best
The"I’m a star" sceneinPearlis an incredible testament to Goth’s skills. Despite all her expectations, she experiences immense disappointment when she is told her audition did not go as well as it did in her mind. Slowly but surely, Pearl’s heart breaks with the realization that her hopes and dreams will never be fulfilled – a crushing moment that reaches its peak when she repeatedly screams, “I’m a star!” Goth delivers a performance that cuts right through you,demonstrating the depth of Pearl’s ambition and, surprisingly, eliciting no small amount of sympathy– despite her horrific actions.
All the films share a theme of wanting more out of life, and all the main characters think that fame is what will improve their life.
I also thinkthe “I’m a star” scene perfectly encapsulates what the wholeXfranchise is about.All the films share a theme of wanting more out of life, and all the main characters think that fame is what will improve their life. Pearl, in bothPearlandX,has desires and regrets related to not becoming a famous dancer, and Maxine is a famous porn star inX, trying to become a famous movie star inMaXXXine. Pearl crying and screaming that she’s a star while being dragged off-stage brings all of these themes together in the saddest way possible.
How Young Pearl Compares To Mia Goth’s Other X Characters
What Does Each Character Bring To X
InX,Mia Goth is unrecognizable as the old version of Pearlwhile at the same time playing the movie’s final girl, Maxine. Old Pearl is definitely another impressive performance, because Goth had to convey a lot more through her eyes, gestures, and voice, as the rest of her face and body is covered in makeup and fake skin. Old Pearl is also the most tragic character, as she is very aware that her days of trying to become famous are behind her.
X’s makeup designerSarah Rubano toldBloody Disgustingthat Mia Goth often spent more than six hours in the makeup chair getting ready to play the old version of Pearl.
Maxine is an interesting character, and serves as the protagonist for two of theXfilms. The character is a lot more in control and finds it easier to get success than Pearl does. Even with her traumatizing past, Maxine likes to assess a situation and does not often overstep boundaries. Pearl, on the other hand, struggles to keep her composure in difficult moments – a trait that leads directly toPearl’s kill count.
Even though all of Mia Goth’s performances in theXfilms are incredible, the young version of Pearl is a clear winner to me, andPearl’s “I’m a star” moment adds to my enjoyment of Goth playing the role.It is intense, emotionally raw, and refers directly toPearl’s heartbreaking past, making it the most memorable moment of theXfranchise. Goth’s ability to disappear in several roles throughout the same film series is a testament to her remarkable skill and elevates each installment to new heights.
