Cuckoo
Movie Trailer
Release Date
August 9, 2024 (United States)
August 29, 2024 (Germany)
Genre
Horror
Cast & Crew
- Hunter Schafer as Gretchen
- Dan Stevens as Herr König
- Jessica Henwick as Beth
- Jan Bluthardt as Henry
- Marton Csokas as Luis
- Greta Fernández as Trixie
- Àstrid Bergès-Frisbey as Ed
- Mila Lieu as Alma
- Proschat Madani as Dr. Bonomo
- Kalin Morrow as the Hooded Woman
Director
Tilman Singer
Producer
- Markus Halberschmidt
- Josh Rosenbaum
- Maria Tsigka
- Ken Kao
- Thor Bradwell
Writer
Tilman Singer
Budget
$7 million
Box Office Performance
$6.5 million
Production Company
- Neon
- Fiction Park
- Waypoint Entertainment
Distributed By
Weltkino Filmverleih (Germany)
Neon (United States)
Running Time
103 minutes
Languages
English, German, French
Maturity Rating
Not Rated
Content Advisory
- Intense horror scenes
- Psychological themes
- Violence
Movie Story
“Cuckoo” is a chilling horror film that delves into the unsettling experience of a young woman named Gretchen, played by Hunter Schafer, who relocates to the remote Bavarian Alps with her family after the tragic death of her mother. Gretchen’s father, Luis (Marton Csokas), has taken a job at a new luxury resort, which is overseen by the enigmatic Herr König (Dan Stevens). From the moment they arrive, Gretchen senses that something is terribly wrong. The once-idyllic surroundings of the Alps soon become a backdrop for nightmarish occurrences that leave Gretchen questioning her sanity.
As Gretchen tries to adjust to her new life, she takes up a job at the resort’s front desk, where she witnesses bizarre and terrifying events. Female guests mysteriously fall ill, vomiting uncontrollably, and her mute half-sister Alma suffers from disturbing seizures triggered by a haunting screech that reverberates through the mountains. Gretchen’s attempts to find normalcy are shattered when she encounters a hooded woman while biking home one evening. This terrifying figure becomes a recurring presence, symbolizing the growing darkness that envelops her family and the resort.
Gretchen’s only solace comes from her friendship with Henry (Jan Bluthardt), a detective investigating a murder linked to the hooded woman. As their bond deepens, Gretchen and Henry uncover a horrifying truth about the resort. Herr König, who had initially appeared to be a benevolent employer, is revealed to be orchestrating a sinister plot involving a near-human species that practices brood parasitism, much like the cuckoo bird. These creatures, including Alma, are placed within human families until they are ready to join their own kind. The revelation that Gretchen’s own sister is part of this terrifying species forces her to confront unimaginable horrors.
In the film’s harrowing climax, Gretchen faces off against the hooded woman and König in a desperate attempt to save her sister. As the lines between reality and nightmare blur, Gretchen must use all her strength to protect her family and escape the deadly trap set by König. The film ends with a tense and bloody standoff, where Gretchen and Alma barely manage to flee the resort, leaving behind the wreckage of their lives and the dark secrets that lurk within the Bavarian Alps. “Cuckoo” is a gripping tale of terror and survival that explores the lengths to which a person will go to protect their loved ones.
Special Effects
The film utilizes practical effects and eerie sound design to heighten the horror, particularly in scenes involving the hooded woman and the unsettling time loops that trap Gretchen and Ed. The use of 35mm film adds a grainy, atmospheric quality that enhances the film’s dark and foreboding mood.
Filming Locations
- North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
Notable Quotes
- “The mountains hold secrets, Gretchen. Some are better left buried.” – Herr König
- “You can’t escape what’s inside you, no matter how far you run.” – Henry
Behind-the-Scenes
“Cuckoo” marks Tilman Singer’s second feature film, and it showcases his distinctive style of blending psychological horror with supernatural elements. The film was shot on 35mm film, adding to its vintage horror aesthetic. Despite casting changes and production delays, the film successfully debuted at the Berlin International Film Festival, where it received acclaim for its chilling atmosphere and strong performances.
Final Verdict
“Cuckoo” is a masterclass in atmospheric horror, combining a compelling story with haunting visuals and disturbing psychological themes. Hunter Schafer delivers a standout performance as Gretchen, bringing vulnerability and strength to a character caught in the grip of terror. With its eerie setting and relentless tension, “Cuckoo” is a must-see for horror fans looking for a film that lingers long after the credits roll.
Image Source: Theatrical release poster