Director Tilman Singer’s new film Cuckoo is a wild horror movie with a dark sense of humor. This is one of those films that will likely divide audiences – but if you find yourself clicking with the tone, you’ll have a great time. The two lead performances are top-tier, and carry the quirky style the film is going for with expert delivery. For me, Cuckoo worked.
Gretchen (Hunter Schafer) has reluctantly moved to the German Alps with her father (Marton Csokas) and his new wife, Beth (Jessica Henwick), and younger daughter Alma (Mila Lieu). They are there to work on their design for a new resort while staying at the existing one owned by Herr König (Dan Stevens). Gretchen starts working at the resort until she discovers something is off with this new town and Herr König.
Schafer and Stevens carry this movie in the best way possible. Schafer brings a quiet cool with an edge of hostility. We gradually get insight into her, and why she seems disconnected from her family. It’s a truly spectacular performance that progressively elevates to new heights as the insanity of the film grows. Schafer is able to deliver on both sides of the performance, from quiet and small to loud and large, with ease.
Stevens has earned quite the reputation as an actor, and he doesn’t disappoint here. His character is charming and kind, but there is clearly a facade. Whether it’s an odd turn of phrases or a lingering look, it is apparent from the onset that Herr König may not be the man he is presenting to be. The first night that Gretchen works for him at the reception desk and he insists that he drive her home, the goosebumps should rise on any veteran movie watcher’s arm. Of course, expecting something is not the same as knowing what is coming, which is another element that Singer delivers on.
The movie has a cold open that gives us a little bit of a taste of what’s to come, but doesn’t reveal too much to really discern what is going on. This story is out there, and doesn’t feel like it is meant to be taken too seriously. There may be an underlying meaning to some of the events in the film, but it really just feels like throwback horror. We have characters who are going through trauma, and then horrifying events play out that make them question their current circumstances and allegiances. It’s compelling, well-paced, and a bit of fun.
Cuckoo is not technically Singer’s first feature, but it’s his first non-film school entry into the craft. It shows great promise of things to come. There is a strong sense of style and command demonstrated in the film. It manages to tackle genre tropes while feeling fresh. Some areas feel underserved, like casting the incredible Jessica Henwick and then not allowing her to make a lasting impression – but overall, this film is a great way for Singer to break into the mainstream.
Cuckoo will be in theaters on August 9.
Rating: 4/5
Berkreviews.com 