LOS ANGELES, California – Maika Monroe, a 31-year-old actress, has starred in various horror movies but had never truly experienced fear on set until she worked on the chilling film “Longlegs” in Vancouver in 2023. This superlatively spooky serial-killer flick, co-starring Nicolas Cage, follows Monroe as FBI agent Lee Harker, delving into unsolved family murders that reveal a dark connection to a menacing suspect from her past known as “Longlegs.”
Despite her calm demeanor on set, Monroe’s heartbeat raced while filming intense scenes with Cage, who fully embraced his role as the terrifying antagonist. Director Osgood “Oz” Perkins aimed to capture raw, spontaneous moments between the two, showcasing Monroe’s ability to maintain composure amid the eerie atmosphere of the movie.
Monroe’s journey into horror films began with her breakout role in “The Guest” in 2014, followed by the critically acclaimed “It Follows,” which solidified her reputation as a defining scream queen of her generation. Her performances transcend traditional scream queen stereotypes, portraying complex, resilient characters with nuanced emotional depth.
As Monroe delves into darker roles, she continues to challenge herself with each new project, embracing characters that allow her to explore her own vulnerabilities and emotions. Despite the intense nature of her work, Monroe remains upbeat and bubbly off-screen, balancing the demands of horror filmmaking with moments of lightheartedness to maintain a healthy mindset.
Looking ahead, Monroe is set to reteam with director David Robert Mitchell for the sequel to “It Follows,” titled “They Follow.” As she navigates the world of horror cinema, Monroe remains open to exploring a lighter side with a potential venture into romantic comedies, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
Throughout her career, Monroe’s dedication to her craft and her ability to authentically portray a wide range of characters have solidified her status as a prominent figure in the horror genre. As she continues to push boundaries and challenge herself with each new role, Monroe’s talent and passion for storytelling shine through, captivating audiences and leaving a lasting impact in the world of cinema.