By Janet Grant
“Cuckoo”: A Stylishly Incoherent Horror Romp will be in theatres on August 9, 2024
German director Tilman Singer’s “Cuckoo” defies narrative conventions,
opting for a deliriously entertaining blend of horror tropes that intrigue you.
The film’s bird-flipping attitude toward coherent plotting or narrative logic
is refreshing and bonkers.
Plot Summary: Gretchen (played superbly by Hunter Schafer)
reluctantly leaves her American home to live with her estranged father,
Luis (Marton Csokas), his second wife Beth (Jessica Henwick), and their
mute 8-year-old daughter, Alma (Mila Lieu). The family relocates to a
Bavarian Alpine resort, where they encounter the wealthy and eccentric
Herr König (Dan Stevens). König, with his pristinely macabre demeanour,
hires Luis and Beth to redesign the resort. However, strange occurrences
soon plague Gretchen, leading her to uncover a shocking secret that ties
back to her family.
Review: Atmospherics and Timelessness: Singer masterfully blends
midcentury modern interiors with contemporary technology, creating an
intentionally fuzzy sense of time. Smartphones coexist with cassette-tape
answerphones, keeping viewers off balance without disrupting the film’s
internal calendar.
Hunter Schafer’s Performance: Schafer shines as the “Final Girl.” She
captures Gretchen’s increasing hysteria and vulnerability, adding a
captivating depth to the film’s eerie atmosphere.
Dan Stevens’ Eccentric Villain: Stevens delivers a hilariously eccentric
performance as Herr König, mispronouncing “Gretchen” with sinister
Teutonic flair.
Body Horror and Thrills: “Cuckoo” draws inspiration from “The Shining”
but amps the body horror. The isolated Alpine setting not only intensifies
the suspense but also keeps you thrilled throughout.
While some may find the film incoherent, this madness makes “Cuckoo” an
utterly unnerving and enjoyable genre romp. Despite its goofiest elements,
Singer’s direction keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.  

In summary: “Cuckoo” is a kooky, stylishly bizarre horror gem that
defies expectations and revels in its madness.