Maika Monroe's latest horror film, Victorian Psycho, is set to premiere at Cannes' Un Certain Regard, and the teaser trailer has already left audiences intrigued and eager for more. The film, directed by Zachary Wigon, stars Monroe as an eccentric young governess who arrives at the remote gothic manor, Ensor House, in 1858. As she assimilates, staff begin to inexplicably disappear, and the owners wonder if something is amiss about (or possessing) the young woman.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the departure from Monroe's usual roles. As she explains in an interview, this character required her to work from the ground up, creating a persona that couldn't rely on her own self. This, in her words, took a toll on her, as she felt the role every day. The challenge of embodying a character so different from her own life is what makes this performance so compelling.
The film also stars Thomasin McKenzie, Jason Isaacs, Amy De Bhrun, Ruth Wilson, Jacobi Jupe, and Evie Templeton. The story is an adaptation of Virginia Feito's 2025 novel of the same name. The teaser trailer hints at a dark and twisted tale, with Monroe's character, Winifred, displaying an eerie bloodthirstiness. This raises a deeper question: what makes a character so compelling that they can captivate audiences, even when they are so different from us?
From my perspective, it's the complexity and depth of these characters that make them so intriguing. They are not simply good or evil, but a blend of both, with a human element that allows us to connect with them. This is what makes Victorian Psycho so captivating, as it explores the darker side of human nature, while also offering a unique and compelling narrative.
One thing that immediately stands out is the film's setting. The gothic manor, Ensor House, provides a haunting backdrop for the story. The period setting, combined with the eerie atmosphere, creates a sense of unease that is perfectly suited to the horror genre. What many people don't realize is that the film's setting is not just a backdrop, but an integral part of the story, shaping the characters and their actions.
In my opinion, Victorian Psycho is a must-watch for horror fans. The teaser trailer only scratches the surface of what promises to be a chilling and thought-provoking film. If you take a step back and think about it, the film explores themes of identity, belonging, and the darker side of human nature, all while offering a unique and captivating narrative. This really suggests that the film is not just a horror movie, but a deeper exploration of the human condition.
