X, Pearl, and MaXXXine together form one of the most distinctive and ambitious horror trilogies of the modern era — films that dared to bring intelligence, style, and emotional heft back to a genre that had been drowning in soulless jump scares. These films, written and directed by Ti West (The House of the Devil) and anchored by the brilliant Mia Goth (Frankenstein), revived the classic slasher format while paying homage to psychological horror stories of decades past. Now, A24 has packaged all three into a stunning collector’s box set that gives these movies the showcase they truly deserve.
X TRILOGY BOXSET packshot. Photo courtesy of A24.
The trilogy begins with X (2022), a film that instantly established itself as something special. On the surface, it plays like a self-aware riff on The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974) — a group of 20-somethings traveling to a remote Texas farmhouse to shoot an adult film called The Preacher’s Daughter. But beneath the grindhouse exterior lies a sharp commentary on youth, aging, and the fear of becoming obsolete. West’s direction embraces both sleaze and sophistication, and the film’s tension builds not just from gore, but from the uncomfortable awareness that death and decay haunt every frame. Goth gives a breakout performance as both Maxine, the aspiring porn star, and Pearl, the elderly killer lurking in the shadows — a dual role that was only the beginning of something special.
X TRILOGY BOXSET bonus materials. Photo courtesy of A24.
Then came Pearl (2022), the prequel that nobody expected to hit as hard as it did. Where X channeled ‘70s exploitation cinema, Pearl transforms into a Technicolor fever dream, resembling a twisted The Wizard of Oz (1939) meets Psycho (1960). This film is arguably the crown jewel of the trilogy, giving Goth the stage to deliver one of the most electrifying performances of the decade. Her portrayal of Pearl, a lonely, repressed woman yearning for fame and freedom, blends tragedy with terror. The film’s lush visuals, meticulous period detail, and gut-punch of a monologue near the end showcase Ti West’s ability to balance character study and horror spectacle. Pearl doesn’t just expand the mythology of X, it deepens it, making the violence and madness of the trilogy heartbreakingly human.
Finally, we arrive at MaXXXine (2024), the closing chapter that brings us to 1980s Los Angeles. Here, Maxine Minx is chasing fame in a city built on illusion. While it’s the flashiest and most mainstream of the three films, it still carries West’s signature blend of style and substance. The neon-soaked cinematography and pulsing synth score are pitch-perfect for the decade, but MaXXXine sometimes feels less gritty and raw compared to X and Pearl. Still, it serves as a fitting finale, exploring the dark side of ambition and the lengths one will go to stay in the spotlight. It may not be as shocking or haunting as its predecessors, but it closes the trilogy with flair and confidence.
X TRILOGY BOXSET packshot. Photo courtesy of A24.
As for the technical presentation, A24 has outdone themselves with this box set. The video transfers are immaculate, preserving the rich color palettes and textures that make each film visually distinct. X looks appropriately grainy and warm; Pearl shines with its dreamy, pastel hues; and MaXXXine glows with electric neon. The sound design is equally impressive, the low rumbles and sharp stingers in X, the sweeping orchestral cues in Pearl, and the pulsing retro soundtrack in MaXXXine all sound crisp and immersive.
The extras are equally generous, offering fans plenty to dive into. X includes a filmmaker commentary with the director of photography and production designer, a “Pearl Makeup Timelapse,” and the original trailer. Pearl comes with its own commentary track, plus featurettes like “Coming Out of Her Shell: The Creation of Pearl,” “Time After Time,” and the trailer. MaXXXine expands even further, boasting commentary with production designer Jason Kisvardary (Sorry to Bother You; Everything Everywhere All at Once) and set decorator Kelsi Ephraim (Swiss Army Man; Everything Everywhere All at Once), as well as featurettes titled “The Reality of the Beast,” “XXX Marks the Spot,” “Hollywood is a Killer,” and a Q&A with West, alongside a deep dive with composer Tyler Bates (300). Each feature gives insight into the creative process and underscores the passion that went into making this trilogy.
X TRILOGY BOXSET packshot. Photo courtesy of A24.
One final touch that makes this set a must-own for collectors is the inclusion of a beautifully produced 64-page booklet filled with behind-the-scenes photos, concept art, and essays that explore the making of the films. It’s a tangible reminder of why physical media still matters, something A24 continues to champion.
X TRILOGY BOXSET bonus materials. Photo courtesy of A24.
In the end, this trilogy box set represents the very best of what modern horror can be — stylish, smart, emotional, and deeply unsettling. X shocked us, Pearl mesmerized us, and MaXXXine reminded us that horror can evolve without losing its soul. Thanks to A24’s care and attention, these films are preserved and celebrated in the way they deserve.
X Trilogy: Collector’s Edition Box Set Blu-ray Special Features:
X
- Commentary with D.P. Eliot Rockett and Production Designer Tom Hammock
- Pearl Makeup Timelapse
- “The X Factor” Featurette
- Original Trailer
Pearl
- Commentary with D.P. Eliot Rockett and Production Designer Tom Hammock
- “Coming Out of Her Shell: The Creation of Pearl” Featurette
- “Time After Time” Featurette
- Original Trailer
MaXXXine
- Commentary with Production Designer Jason Kisvarday and Set Decorator Kelsi Ephraim
- “The Belly of the Beast’ Featurette
- “XXX Marks the Spot” Featurette
- “Hollywood is a Killer” Featurette
- Deep Dive with Composer Tyler Bates
- Q&A with Ti West
- Original Trailers
Available on 4K UHD and Blu-ray October 21st, 2025.
For more information, head to the respective official A24 X, Pearl, and MaXXXine webpages.
To purchase, head to the official A24 Store X Trilogy: Collector’s Edition Box Set webpage.
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Categories: Films To Watch, Home Release, Recommendation
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