Maika Monroe joining the cast of Victorian Psycho instantly sold me on the project. After her phenomenal work in Longlegs, I tracked every update as the November 13 release date approached. The trailers hinted at total madness, but the actual movie blew right past my expectations.
Virginia Feito adapted the script directly from her acclaimed novel. Monroe plays Winifred, an eccentric governess taking a job at a remote gothic estate. The family quickly notices that something feels off about her. Beneath her polite exterior lies a dark secret. Winifred is actually a ruthless, cold-blooded 19th-century serial killer.
A Powerhouse Horror Ensemble
Director Zachary Wigon (Sanctuary) and Longlegs producer Dan Kagan assembled a killer supporting cast. Thomasin McKenzie (Last Night in Soho), Jason Isaacs, and Evie Templeton (Wednesday) star alongside Monroe. Additionally, Ruth Wilson (His Dark Materials), Amy De Bhrún (Vikings), and Jacobi Jupe (Hamnet) round out the ensemble. All did well with their portrayals. But Monroe was brilliant.
Maika Monroe Gives a Career-Best Performance
Calling this movie disturbing feels like a massive understatement. Monroe delivers an absolutely brilliant performance as Winifred. She projects total insanity through unsettling facial tics and bizarre expressions. This role easily stands out as the best work of her career. Compared to her more normal roles, like in Longlegs, it reveals just how truly talented the actress is. Honestly, her unnerving portrayal deserves serious recognition during major awards season.
A Killer Twist
The story keeps you completely hooked. I usually spot plot twists a mile away, but a late-game twist snuck right up on me. And it was a great addition. Don’t worry, I’m not going to spoil it for you. This film is something you need to experience for yourself.
Amazing Cinematography
Cinematographer Nico Aguilar also delivers pure genius. The visual framing stays elegant, rich, and beautiful during normal scenes, but it turns wildly chaotic whenever Winifred loses her mind. It was a fantastic decision that left me impressed.
The Sets, Costumes, and Gore
The time-accurate costumes are stunning. The film plays out mostly in an elegant manor, which creates a strong contrast with the brutality and gore. The blood, special effects, and gore were fantastic, except for one scene where obvious CGI blood is sent through the air before covering the star. That took my attention for a moment, but the story quickly pulled me right back in. Other than that one scene, which lasted only a few seconds, I have nothing else to complain about.
The Best Horror Film of 2026
Director Zachary Wigon delivers a truly shocking nightmare that keeps your jaw on the floor. And Feito’s writing keeps the tension razor-sharp throughout. So, as for my verdict, ultimately, Victorian Psycho has officially taken the top spot on my personal list of best 2026 horror releases. Yes, it’s that good. I spent that night and the next few days thinking about it; that’s an experience that I rarely get.
Fortunately, fans do not have to wait long to experience the brutal chaos. Victorian Psycho hits theaters this Friday the 13th, making it the perfect release date. Grab your tickets immediately. I can not emphasize it enough; this is a movie you won’t want to miss.
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