Quentin Tarantino recently restored and revitalized the historic Vista single-screen movie theater in Los Angeles, which he purchased a few years ago. The theater recently hosted a sold-out double feature of the films "X" and "Pearl," both directed by Ti West and released by A24. These films, part of a trilogy that also includes the newly released "MaXXXine," explore the horror of ruthless ambition and the pursuit of stardom within the context of different eras in American moviemaking. The article delves into West's background, from his early days making films with childhood friend Graham Reznick to his formative experiences in film school and his subsequent career in independent filmmaking. It also discusses the unique qualities of West's recent films, which have garnered attention for their focus on the craft of filmmaking and the standout performance of actress Mia Goth. The trilogy's first film, "X," tells the story of a girl with big dreams who sets out to make a low-budget genre flick, while its prequel, "Pearl," is set in 1918 and focuses on the origin story of the first film's monster, Pearl. The final film, "MaXXXine," set in 1985 Hollywood, completes the trilogy and emphasizes the theme of ruthless ambition. The article also highlights West's approach to filmmaking, including his willingness to adapt and make bold creative decisions, such as shifting "Pearl" from black and white to vibrant color. It explores the personal nature of West's work and his deep connection to the medium of film. Ultimately, the article reflects on West's own introspective approach to his work, as he grapples with the question of why people are drawn to movies and what drives his own passion for filmmaking.