Get ready for a thrilling journey into the world of cinema with a film that deserves a second look! Val Kilmer's haunting collaboration with Elle Fanning in "Twixt" is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
This 2011 horror masterpiece, crafted by the legendary Francis Ford Coppola, might have flown under the radar initially, but it's time to shine a spotlight on this overlooked gem. Coppola, the visionary behind this project, wrote, directed, and produced this captivating tale, showcasing his unique artistic vision.
In "Twixt," Val Kilmer embodies Hall Baltimore, a novelist struggling to find inspiration in his witch-hunting fantasy stories. During a book signing event in a small town, Baltimore encounters Bobby LaGrange (played by the talented Bruce Dern), who invites him to explore a morgue containing the body of a serial killer's victim. Intrigued by the murders and the town's mysterious history, Baltimore decides to pen a new novel inspired by these events. However, as the story unfolds, he finds himself entangled in a dream-like netherworld, where he meets Elle Fanning's enigmatic character, "V" (short for Virginia). The line between fiction and reality blurs, and Baltimore's new story uncovers his own buried guilt, taking a dark and captivating turn.
"Twixt" made its debut at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2011, followed by screenings at various other festivals before a limited international theatrical release. Coppola later released a director's cut, "B'Twixt Now and Sunrise," in 2022, which is now available on Prime Video for Prime members and on Pluto for non-Prime users, offering a unique opportunity to experience this film without any additional costs.
But here's where it gets intriguing: "Twixt" is more than just a curious addition to Coppola's filmography. Based on a dream that inspired its gothic romance setting, the film holds a deeply personal significance for the director. Coppola financed the project himself and shot it primarily on his estate in Napa County, California. In a heartfelt revelation, Coppola shared that the film explored his feelings of guilt surrounding the death of his son, Gian-Carlo, in 1986. "I didn't realize it was going to take me to something I haven't ever admitted to myself," he confessed during the original press run. "Every parent feels responsible for their children's well-being, and I didn't realize how much I felt personally responsible for what happened those 25 years ago. I should have been there."
With this understanding, it becomes evident that "Twixt" is not merely a quirky overlooked film but a deeply personal and emotional journey that Coppola invites us to share. And this is the part most people miss: despite its initial critical reception, the film has gained a dedicated following in recent years, with viewers praising its unique charm and Coppola's bold vision.
Coppola's creative process for "Twixt" was unconventional, to say the least. He encouraged audience participation during screenings, even editing the film in real-time, a precursor to his more recent cinematic endeavors, such as the highly anticipated (or dreaded, depending on who you ask) "Megalopolis." This interactive approach, while not appreciated by critics at the time, has added to the film's cult status and its appeal to modern audiences.
"Twixt" may not make it to the top of Val Kilmer's best movies list, but his performance in this film has been praised, especially in light of his passing in 2025. Coppola's personal horror fantasy is a testament to Kilmer's ability to bring depth and intrigue to his roles.
On platforms like Letterboxd, users have expressed their love for "Twixt," describing it as "hard to tease or puzzle out, but easy to love" and "the most Francis Ford Coppola movie ever." Whether you're a Coppola fan or not, "Twixt" is a fascinating watch that challenges conventional expectations and offers a unique cinematic experience.
So, are you ready to dive into the world of "Twixt" and discover its hidden treasures? Remember, as Coppola himself said, "30 years ago, the films you think were so good were not received well. 30 years later, they'll give you a lifetime achievement award for what you got fired for."
Will "Twixt" be the next cult classic? Only time will tell, but one thing's for sure: it's a film that deserves a place on your watchlist.
What are your thoughts on "Twixt"? Do you think it has the potential to become a beloved cult favorite? Share your opinions in the comments and let's discuss!
