West’s 2022 horror film “X” presents itself as a stylish entry into the slasher genre, yet it largely follows a familiar template, where victims are hunted and eliminated one by one. The setting, a secluded rural farm, adds to its conventional feel.
Surprisingly, the film’s violent sequences and standard horror tropes are among its weaker aspects, as West captures the kills with only slightly more flair than what one might expect from a lesser-known slasher sequel from the mid-1980s. Growing up in an era where these films thrived, I found West’s dedication to replicating the style more predictable than impressive.
Despite this, the movie introduces some compelling themes related to desire and regret, making it stand out slightly among its genre counterparts. Taking place in 1979 Texas, the film immediately recalls the atmosphere of “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre.” It follows a group of adult film creators who, for unspecified reasons, have been pushed out of mainstream pornography.
A secluded farmhouse becomes the stage for terror and longing in X (Photo: X/A24, Little Lamb Mad Solar Productions)Their ambition is to craft a bold and artistically driven adult film, but they must venture beyond city limits to do so. Their chosen location is a remote farmhouse owned by an aging couple, Howard (Stephen Ure) and his wife Pearl (Mia Goth). Goth, who was in her late 20s during filming, underwent extensive makeup to transform into Pearl. She also portrayed Maxine, one of the young performers in the adult film.
As filming progresses, Pearl lurks nearby, secretly watching the intimate scenes with a mix of fascination and sorrow. Later, she approaches Maxine flirtatiously and even attempts to slip into bed with her. Through Pearl’s behavior, it becomes clear that she longs for the passion and vitality of her younger years. Her yearning isn’t just metaphorical—it’s a deeply personal struggle with aging and lost youth.
What You Should Know About the Story of “X”
Despite the film’s exploration of sexual repression and lost opportunities, “X” maintains an openly sex-positive stance. Bobby-Lynne (Brittany Snow), one of the film’s central figures, articulates a perspective that challenges traditional notions of morality surrounding pornography.
She argues that in a society often critical of adult entertainment, porn serves an important role in encouraging healthy sexual expression. Those who condemn it, she believes, do so out of repression or jealousy. Lorraine (Jenna Ortega), intrigued by this outlook, decides to take part in the production, influenced by Bobby-Lynne’s arguments about sexual freedom.
Through Mia Goth’s dual roles, the film presents contrasting perspectives on sexuality. Maxine, embracing her role in the adult industry, is self-assured and ambitious, while Pearl is trapped by regret, envious of the liberation the younger generation enjoys.
This contrast is primarily conveyed through Pearl’s actions and violent outbursts rather than lengthy dialogues. A poignant moment arises when Pearl attempts to seduce Howard, only for him to refuse, citing his failing heart—a physical limitation that mirrors the emotional distance between them.
Mia Goth later reprised her role as a younger Pearl in West’s prequel, “Pearl,” which arrived just six months after “X.” The prequel expands on Pearl’s backstory, detailing her unfulfilled dreams and frustrations. Goth’s performance in “Pearl” was widely regarded as one of the year’s strongest, though for now, the focus remains on analyzing “X” on its own terms.
The Final Moments of “X”
Although discussions of pornography and sexual liberation are integral to the film, they are eventually overshadowed by escalating violence. Pearl and Howard go on a killing spree, eliminating nearly all the main characters.
By the end, only Maxine and Pearl remain. After Pearl is incapacitated by a shotgun blast that leaves her writhing on the porch with a broken hip, Maxine delivers the final blow—running over Pearl’s head with a van. The film frames this as symbolic: youthful, uninhibited sexuality triumphs over repression.
Pearl’s demise, however, does not offer the same sense of justice that one might feel when watching classic horror villains meet their end. Unlike figures such as Michael Myers or Freddy Krueger, Pearl’s story carries a sense of tragedy.
Rather than simply rooting for her defeat, audiences might find themselves hoping she could have found either liberation from her constraints or, at the very least, a more merciful fate. The thematic depth surrounding sexual freedom and repression fades in the wake of the climactic carnage, with these ideas more thoroughly explored in “Pearl.”
Beyond its themes of sexuality, “X” also serves as a commentary on the treatment of the adult film industry. Despite its massive audience and billions in revenue, porn remains marginalized, seen as an industry pushed to the fringes. The film subtly acknowledges the realities of 1970s adult filmmaking, tying these observations into its broader themes.
Understanding the Ending of “X”
The film’s protagonists, a group of adult filmmakers, leave behind the security of the city to pursue their work independently. This choice can be interpreted as a reflection of the inherent risks within the porn industry.
While established studios may provide safety measures, pay fair wages, and conduct regular health screenings, many smaller productions lack these protections.
Bobby-Lynne challenges society’s view on adult entertainment in X (Photo: X/A24, Little Lamb Mad Solar Productions)As a result, countless performers are left vulnerable, often working in unsafe and exploitative environments. For a deeper exploration of these issues, one might look to Ninja Thyberg’s 2022 film “Pleasure,” which offers an unfiltered depiction of the industry’s darker side.
Through this lens, “X” could be seen as advocating for a fairer and more transparent adult film industry. As long as society treats sexuality as taboo and refuses to acknowledge the legitimacy of adult entertainment, those working in the field will continue to face dangerous conditions.
The film suggests that acknowledging and respecting adult filmmakers would create a healthier industry for both performers and audiences. A final thought: support ethical consumption of adult content.
Pay for it, ensure creators receive compensation, and be mindful of its origins. If disputes over royalties in mainstream entertainment seem unfair, consider how much worse it is for those in the adult film industry.
Beyond its commentary on pornography, West’s film also highlights the determination of independent filmmakers in general. While porn serves as the film’s focal point, the struggles faced by low-budget creators apply across the board.
Those making independent films must often work within constraints, accepting remote locations and limited resources rather than enjoying the luxury of elaborate sets and ideal conditions.
Ti West’s Perspective on the Ending
Speaking with GQ in September 2022, West provided insight into the underlying themes of both “X” and “Pearl.” He described the characters in “X” as representatives of not just independent filmmakers, but artists of all kinds who strive to create meaningful work despite overwhelming odds.
He acknowledged the existential doubt that often plagues those in creative fields, particularly when faced with repeated failures and discouragement. He explained:
“Existential things are just relatable to everybody. I’m also very charmed by people who try to do things that are very difficult with high failure rates. Most people grow up wanting to be a director or be an actor, or be a musician, and, you know, I want to applaud your dreams here. But like, maybe there’s something more realistic you can do.
And that’s always a bummer when people don’t believe in you that way. But it’s also because the bullseye is so narrow. Almost nobody does it. It’s so much more likely that you will not succeed at doing that. It’s such a lonely road.”
West also addressed Pearl’s character as a representation of unfulfilled ambition, saying:
“[I]t brings up all these other existential issues like, Am I good enough? Am I wanted if people don’t want me? Hopefully, people don’t have [her] exact story, but everyone has a version of Pearl’s story, of, ‘I wish my life were a little bit different.'”
Following the success of “X” and “Pearl,” West’s next installment, “MaXXXine,” will move its focus to Maxine’s journey through the 1980s porn industry. The film has completed production, though no official release date has been announced.
