Get ready for a chilling exploration of the mind and a journey into the dark corners of cinema with the upcoming film, 'Victorian Psycho.' This article delves into the making of this psychological horror, offering a unique perspective on the creative process and the intense performance at its heart.
The Challenge of Playing a Serial Killer
Maika Monroe, known for her roles in horror classics like 'It Follows' and 'Longlegs,' takes on a terrifying new challenge in 'Victorian Psycho.' She portrays Winifred Notty, a 19th-century serial killer, a role that pushed her to her limits. Monroe admits, "It was working from the ground up, creating this character where I couldn't rely on my own self." This departure from her usual self-grounded roles is a testament to the depth of her craft and the film's psychological complexity.
A Character's Descent into Madness
The film's director, Zachary Wigon, describes Winifred as an outsider desperately seeking acceptance. This paradoxical character, who will never truly belong yet yearns for it endlessly, sets the stage for a descent into madness. As the story unfolds, the audience witnesses the gradual unraveling of Winifred's psyche, a process that Wigon found visually intriguing and challenging.
The Evolution of a Project
'Victorian Psycho' began as a collaboration between Wigon and author Virginia Feito, who adapted her own novel for the screen. The project's journey from an A24 venture to its eventual distribution by Bleecker Street is a testament to the volatile nature of independent filmmaking. Despite these changes, Wigon expresses gratitude for the support received, allowing him to bring his vision to life.
Casting Maika Monroe
Wigon was drawn to Monroe's intense internal quality, a trait he believed would be perfect for portraying a serial killer. Her ability to convey the whirring gears of a character's mind, a common fascination in true-crime narratives, was a key factor in her casting. Monroe's dedication to the role is evident in her extensive rehearsals and weekly Zoom sessions with Wigon to perfect the character's every move.
The Power of Collaboration
Monroe's performance was further elevated by her costars, particularly Ruth Wilson and Jason Isaacs. Their unpredictable and unusual choices kept Monroe on her toes, creating a dynamic and challenging environment. The friendship between Winifred and Ms. Lamb, played by Thomasin McKenzie, adds a layer of complexity to Winifred's character, humanizing her despite her murderous tendencies.
A Unique Tone
The film's tone, described as arch-horror-comic, evolved during the script stages. Wigon compares the initial process to engineering, focusing on the structural arrangement of the narrative. This meticulous approach extended to post-production, where Wigon's precise visualization allowed for minimal coverage during shooting, prioritizing stylistic choices over traditional coverage.
A Transformative Experience
For Monroe, the role of Winifred was transformative. She immersed herself fully, memorizing every scene and embodying the character to the point where she could still recite her lines years later. The prosthetic teeth, the cold blood-covered scenes, and the intense collaboration with her costars all contributed to a performance that Monroe herself describes as one she'll miss the most.
A Chilling Premiere
'Victorian Psycho' is set to premiere at the Cannes Film Festival on May 21, 2026, offering festival-goers a chilling glimpse into the mind of a serial killer. With its unique tone, intense performances, and meticulous craftsmanship, the film promises to be a standout in the horror genre.
As we await its release, one thing is certain: Maika Monroe's portrayal of Winifred Notty will leave a lasting impression, proving that sometimes the most terrifying monsters are the ones we can relate to the most.
