NEON’s newest wild horror film, “Cuckoo,” has simply dropped a brand new trailer that includes extra glimpses at Dan Stevens and Hunter Schafer’s already-acclaimed performances. The enigmatic but apparently entertaining movie debuted on the Berlin Worldwide Movie Fest this yr, and /Movie’s B.J. Colangelo dubbed it a “screeching experience of repulsive sci-fi physique horror” in her constructive competition overview again in April. Since then, robust opinions surrounding the film have multiplied, with /Movie’s Invoice Bria describing “Cuckoo” as “profoundly unusual, nightmarish, and transferring in equal measure” on Twitter (or X, as weirdos name it). At present, the movie holds an 81% approval score from critics cited on Rotten Tomatoes.
Written and directed by “Luz” filmmaker Tilman Singer, “Cuckoo” tells the story of a teen whose transfer to the Bavarian Alps is met with a collection of sinister occasions. The film marks the primary horror function for “Euphoria” breakout star Schafer (although Yorgos Lanthimos’ “Sorts of Kindness” actually toes the style line), who’s downright unimaginable in every part she’s in. It additionally continues an entertainingly zany streak for Stevens, who was as soon as best-known for his flip in “Downton Abbey” however this yr alone has performed assorted oddballs in “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire,” “Abigail,” and now “Cuckoo.” Stevens is not any stranger to style fare both, having beforehand starred within the 2014 cult favourite “The Visitor” in addition to FX’s trippy superhero present “Legion.”
Although opinions for the movie point out that “Cuckoo” is, nicely, cuckoo, its first trailer gave little precise data away, as an alternative opting to highlight the movie’s unnerving tone and imagery. Brace your self earlier than trying out the second trailer (see above).
Will Cuckoo hold NEON’s successful streak alive?
Correctly, the “Cuckoo” advertising and marketing continues to carry its playing cards near its chest, with the most recent trailer focusing way more on the movie’s vital accolades and Stevens having a ball enjoying a deliciously menacing father than explaining what the hell is even happening right here. NEON itself is driving excessive on the field workplace success of this month’s “Longlegs,” one other horror movie that relied closely on utilizing its temper and magnificence as promoting factors reasonably than its plot. It is a bit quickly to count on lightning to strike once more, however between the vital buzz and Schafer’s rising star, “Cuckoo” might have sufficient going for it to make sure that it avoids flying under the radar. As somebody eager to see extra audacious, unique style films doing nicely, that might be greater than welcome information for me.
The synopsis for “Cuckoo” reads:
Reluctantly, 17-year-old Gretchen leaves her American dwelling to reside together with her father, who has simply moved right into a resort within the German Alps along with his new household. Arriving at their future residence, they’re greeted by Mr. König, her father’s boss, who takes an inexplicable curiosity in Gretchen’s mute half-sister Alma. One thing would not appear proper on this tranquil trip paradise. Gretchen is suffering from unusual noises and bloody visions till she discovers a stunning secret that additionally considerations her family.
“Cuckoo” opens in theaters on August 9, 2024.