MaXXXine's Horror Inspiration: Why Ed Wood Makes the Ideal Companion Film
Maxxxine, Ti West's most recent horror movie, marks the last X trilogy release. Following the title MaXXXine as she tries to make it big, it's an insane trip through 80s Hollywood. MaXXXine is a great horror film in and of itself, but it also reminds me to go back over another incredible movie—Tim Burton's Ed Wood.
Both MaXXine and Ed Wood chronicle underdogs. They are about people who, regardless of all challenges, are resolved to realize their dreams. Viewers will find great resonance in Maxxxine's admonition of challenging expectations. She is driven not only but also to reject anything less than what she is due. This message exhorts viewers to embrace their uniqueness and fight for their own goals.
The biographical film Ed Wood honors the tenacity of outsiders as well as the reputation of the controversial director noted for his low-budget, campy films. The title character, Ed Wood, is an outsider who lets vision not be hampered by negativity. He welcomes his originality and resists Hollywood's standards. Though critics say the films he wants to create are "bad," he is resolved to create them. Ed Wood welcomes the underdog attitude, much as MaXXXine does.
Ed Wood & MaXXXine Honor Hollywood Horror Movies
Love letters to classic horror movies, both Ed Wood and MaXXXine are They honor the history, campy humor, and ability to scare and entertain viewers of the genre. From Psycho to The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, MaXXXine makes many allusions to vintage horror movies. West has even discussed his passion for practical effects, which he uses to provide viewers a visceral experience.
Ed Wood honors the golden age of terror. It stars legendary people like Bela Lugosi, who personifies genre brilliance. The movie also honors the look of vintage Hollywood. Like the Musso and Frank Grill, its monochrome, classic sets and locations are a visual love letter to the Hollywood of past.
Why Ed Wood Is Underappreciated as a Cult Classic
One movie deserving of more affection is Ed Wood. It's a funny and poignant homage to a director who was frequently laughed at and teased yet persisted and produced movies that still inspire and entertain. This movie honors the force of enthusiasm, ingenuity, and the fortitude of the underprivileged. Themes in the movie are especially pertinent now since the entertainment business deals with problems of fair pay, artistic freedom's value, and creative control.
Ed Wood and MaXXXine present an original viewpoint on Hollywood and the horror genre. They inspire us to honor the outsiders and underdogs—those who dare to be unique and follow their aspirations in face-off against the constraints. Seeing MaXXXine is the ideal way to go back over Ed Wood. This is an opportunity to value two movies honoring the ability of creativity and reminding us that, regardless of background, anyone can change the world.
