Cuckoo

There's just the right amount of fun in this film to bring it from being a pretentious travesty, to a fun, bordering on campy arthouse popcorn horror. I think the key to enjoying Cuckoo is to know that the filmmakers very clearly enjoyed what they were putting on screen. Meaning, while it's said by many that this film is "strange," I wouldn't go so far as to say in an uncomfortable way. It's a fun - just a dash! - kind of strange that makes it work, and just accessible enough. A strange joy and fun lies underneath it all which felt more obvious the further into the experience.

As I write this, I'm watching a review on YouTube where the critic states she felt the first 2/3 of Cuckoo was generic, while the final third was so good that it's what made the movie for her. She says hers seems to be the minority view, and that most think, well, like me! That view is the first 2/3 is what worked for me the most - what really had me intrigued and guessing throughout - but the final third is where it sort of fell apart. Not enough to ruin it, mostly thanks to lead actor Hunter Schaefer (her first film is a LEAD role!) filling the gaps by continuing the talent streak following her role on the excellent HBO show Euphoria. But the final third, yeah, coulda been stronger. That's where it became more generic for me, but luckily it didn't destroy or even stain the entire experience overall.

Try not to get too lost in it, A lot is truly thrown at the wall, but you can easily avoid falling in the trap of trying to make sense of all the details. Just look at the general arc, avoid the noise and enjoy the ride. There's so much to admire visually, plus both a score and soundtrack that are strangely, and here's that word again: fun!

Fun tension! Fun scares! Fun visuals! It's a carnival ride. Just hop in and get your money's worth.

"What's it all about, though?" I don't know. Go see it and let me know.