If I were asked to pick my most favorite genre, I would answer horror without hesitation But thrillers will always have a place in my heart, and that includes films with unpredictable protagonists (technically, antagonists) who are destined to go on an absolute rampage

One film that fits that description perfectly is “Pearl,” which hits one of the best streaming services today (August 16) I've already seen it, and I can confidently say that it is one of the most haunting films I've come across in a while You'll be gripped throughout the duration of the screening by the wonderful performance of Mia Goth, who plays Pearl

What sets “Pearl” apart from traditional horror thrillers is its ability to blend classic horror with intense character study It explores the darker side of ambition, loneliness, and madness If you haven't seen it yet, it's one of those films you should add to your Netflix watch list

“Pearl” is a psycho-horror thriller prequel to Ti West's film “X” delving into the backstory of Pearl, the villainous old woman from X, Mia Goth plays a young woman in the 1910s

Set in the era of the Spanish flu and World War I, “Pearl” follows the protagonist who lives on an isolated farm with her strict and overbearing mother and sickly father Pearl dreams of escaping her repressive life and becoming a movie star However, her ambitions are twisted by deep-seated psychological problems and increasingly violent tendencies

The film is a terrifyingly beautiful portrayal of Pearl's descent into madness as she struggles with dark desires, social pressures, and longings for fame All of these trials ultimately drive her to commit horrific acts throughout the film

Less than five minutes into the screening, I knew that “Pearl” would become a genre classic It has one of the finest aesthetics and atmospheres when it comes to reflecting the social changes of the early 20th century, when cinema was moving from a novelty to a powerful cultural force

“The Pearl” was a huge success upon its release because it brilliantly intertwined this historical context with a deeply personal and disturbing story The film's resonance with contemporary audiences is due not only to its thrilling elements, but also to its exploration of timeless themes of ambition, oppression, and the fear of obscurity Much of this is due to the powerful performance of Mia Goss as Pearl She embodies the despair and madness of a character who is both a product of her time and an enduring example of unfulfilled dreams

Given that critics gave the film a high score of 92% on Rotten Tomatoes, I'm not the only one who thinks it's really great Linda Marlick of the Jewish Chronicle says: “Fresh, subversive, full of delicious irony and dark humor Goth continues to impress

Meanwhile, Phil Pirello of the AV Club said, “With The Pearl, writer/director Ti West has both embraced and elevated what horror films can do, further cementing his status as one of the best things to happen to the genre”

Audiences were also impressed, giving “Pearl” a high rating of 83% One described it as “the best of the trilogy” and another said: “Mia Goss, you are a star Frankly, I would watch this movie again just for Goss

If you're a fan of psycho-thrillers that linger in your mind long after the credits roll, “Pearl” is definitely the next film you should see; a prequel to “X” and part of a trilogy that concludes with “MaXXXine,” the film takes its time to show the origins of a new horror antagonist Plus, with its stunning visuals, dark story, and unforgettable performance by Mia Goth, “Pearl” is one of those rare films that will leave you unsettled and deeply moved

Not a fan See what else is coming to Netflix in August 2024 and the best movies available now

Stream “The Pearl” on Netflix now and see why it's one of the most talked about horror thrillers of 2022