‘Truly Unsettling’ Serial Killer Horror Film Has BBC Viewers Hooked From the First Scene
Fans have praised the chilling film as a “masterpiece”, with some comparing it to Silence of the Lambs and Mindhunter.
A disturbing serial killer mystery is drawing attention from BBC viewers, with audiences praising its unsettling atmosphere, gripping investigation and supernatural twists. The film, described by fans as a chilling blend of Mindhunter and The Silence of the Lambs, is now available to watch on BBC iPlayer at no extra cost.
The film in question is Longlegs, which originally arrived in cinemas in 2024 before becoming available through premium streaming services. Its latest availability gives viewers another opportunity to discover the horror title that left a strong impression on audiences following its theatrical release.
Rather than relying on constant jump scares, Longlegs builds tension through its dark atmosphere, disturbing mystery and increasingly unsettling revelations. That approach has divided some viewers, but many fans have been quick to praise the film for the way it keeps them on edge from beginning to end.
What is Longlegs about?
Set in the 1990s, Longlegs follows FBI Agent Lee Harker, who is assigned to investigate an unsolved serial killer case. What initially appears to be a conventional criminal investigation soon takes a disturbing turn when new evidence points towards a connection with the occult.
As Harker digs deeper, she uncovers a personal link between herself and the killer. The discovery raises the stakes considerably, leaving her racing to stop him before he can strike again.
The combination of police investigation, psychological tension and supernatural horror has prompted comparisons with some well-known crime thrillers. Like The Silence of the Lambs, the film centres on an FBI agent pursuing a dangerous killer. Meanwhile, its attention to character, atmosphere and the unsettling psychology surrounding the case has reminded some viewers of Netflix’s acclaimed series Mindhunter.
However, Longlegs takes a different approach to frightening its audience. Instead of depending heavily on sudden shocks and familiar horror tricks, it allows dread to build gradually, creating an atmosphere that many viewers have found particularly disturbing.
Why are viewers calling the film a masterpiece?
Despite its unsettling subject matter, Longlegs has attracted plenty of enthusiastic reactions from viewers who appreciate its distinctive take on the horror genre.
Some fans have advised newcomers to avoid searching for details about the story before watching, warning that doing so could spoil key surprises. The film also features a high-profile star whose appearance comes later in the story, adding another reason for audiences to approach it without knowing too much in advance.
Online reactions have been particularly positive, with one viewer describing the film as “deliciously weird and truly unsettling”.
Another fan was equally impressed, praising the film’s combination of crime drama and supernatural horror.
“This is a masterpiece in its own right! The best way I could describe it is Silence of the Lambs meets Mindhunter!” the viewer wrote, adding that the story remains tense and suspenseful throughout.
They also highlighted the balance between a grounded criminal investigation and supernatural elements, explaining that the film incorporates both without allowing the latter to overwhelm the story.
Other viewers have praised the film’s ability to maintain its grip on the audience long after the opening scene.
One fan described Longlegs as a masterclass in horror, applauding its atmospheric storytelling and chilling effect. According to the viewer, the tension continues right through to the closing credits, with the film leaving a lasting impression afterwards.
Another audience member shared a similar reaction, saying they were hooked almost immediately.
“This movie is chilling. From the first scene, I was hooked. I could tell this movie was something special,” they wrote.
The viewer also compared its suspense with that of The Silence of the Lambs, arguing that Longlegs delivered the kind of tension they had been hoping to experience.
Despite acknowledging that some viewers might find faults with the film, they said its premise, atmosphere and performances had frightened them more than any other movie they had seen that decade.
A horror film that builds dread rather than relying on jump scares
The enthusiastic reactions highlight what appears to be one of Longlegs‘ biggest draws: its ability to create an uncomfortable viewing experience without depending on conventional horror techniques.
Its combination of a serial killer investigation, occult clues and a growing personal connection between the investigator and her target gives the story several layers of mystery. As Lee Harker moves closer to the truth, the case becomes increasingly disturbing, blurring the boundaries between a crime thriller and supernatural horror.
That approach may not appeal to everyone, but the responses shared by fans suggest it has struck a chord with viewers who enjoy slow-building suspense and unsettling storytelling.
For those looking for a darker alternative to a conventional crime drama, Longlegs offers a mystery that combines FBI investigation with an eerie supernatural undercurrent.
Longlegs is streaming on BBC iPlayer.