NEON released the trailer for Cuckoo, a mysterious horror flick that centers around a 17-year-old girl, Gretchen, played by Hunter Schafer (Euphoria, The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes), who must move to a resort with her family. Unfortunately, strange occurrences make it clear something is afoot. Additional cast includes Jessica Henwick (Glass Onion, Love and Monsters), Dan Stevens (Downtown Abbey), and Martin Csokas (Chevalier, The Equalizer), among others.
Written and directed by Tilman Singer (Luz), the trailer feels like a foray into isolated terror where no one can trust what they see. It gives Identity vibes because of the feel and title. Yet also, it has an element that is very The Twilight Zone-esque, specifically the “People Are Alike All Over” episode. It’s as though the lead is an unwitting guinea pig for whatever’s happening. Or perhaps it’s her mind creating all the conflict.
While it’s unclear when the film takes place, it’s likely during the reign of cassettes. If taken at face value, it appears some unknown danger lurks outside after dark, precipitating terror and chaos. After all, someone tells Gretchen to stay inside and lock the doors, and he will pick her up. Plus, some creepy, nightmarish woman keeps popping up behind people.
As of now, Cuckoo sits at 76% on RottenTomatoes. But critics and audiences do not always agree on what’s thrilling entertainment. So, it will be up to audiences to decide what they think about Cuckoo when it releases.
What do you think of the trailer?
Cuckoo releases in theaters nationwide on August 9th!
