A24’s New Fantasy Adventure The Legend of Ochi Stumbles Despite Stunning Visuals
The Legend of Ochi, A24’s latest offering, is a fantasy adventure that attempts to blend whimsy with deeper themes, but ultimately falters in its storytelling.
Directed by Isaiah Saxon, this film is set on the remote island of Carpathia, where a young girl named Yuri (played by Helena Zengel) lives with her father, Maxim (Willem Dafoe), and her adopted brother, Petro (Finn Wolfhard). The narrative follows Yuri on her quest to return a wounded baby Ochi—a creature that Maxim and the local boys have been taught to fear and hunt.
From the outset, the film presents a world steeped in myth and mystery. Maxim, a fervent hunter of the Ochi, leads a group of boys into the woods, armed and ready to protect their livestock from these creatures. However, the film's premise takes a turn when Yuri discovers a young Ochi trapped and injured, leading her to question everything she has been taught about these beings.
While the film is visually enchanting, with stunning cinematography by Evan Prosofsky and a fanciful score by David Longstreth of the Dirty Projectors, it struggles to deliver a coherent narrative. Critics have noted the film's ambitious attempt to evoke the tactile magic of childhood adventures reminiscent of classics like E.T. and The NeverEnding Story, but lament that it falls short in character development and emotional depth.
Yuri's relationship with her father is central to the story, yet it is depicted with a lack of nuance. Maxim's obsession with hunting the Ochi stems from a traumatic past, including the banishment of Yuri's mother, Dasha (Emily Watson), after she was bitten by one of the creatures. This backstory, while intriguing, is not fully explored, leaving viewers with more questions than answers.
As Yuri embarks on her journey to return the baby Ochi to its family, the film introduces various quirky elements, such as a candy-colored grocery store and Maxim's eccentric knight-like attire during hunts. These aspects, while visually striking, often feel disjointed from the film's core message.
Despite these shortcomings, Zengel's performance as Yuri stands out. She brings a feral energy to the character, embodying the spirit of a girl caught between the constraints of her father's expectations and her own burgeoning independence. Yet, even her strong performance cannot fully salvage the film's narrative flaws.
Critics have drawn comparisons between Saxon's directorial style and that of Wes Anderson, noting the film's whimsical yet superficial aesthetic. However, where Anderson often infuses his narratives with profound themes and character arcs, Saxon's storytelling lacks the same depth. The film's attempts at humor and lightheartedness sometimes overshadow its more serious undertones, resulting in a tonal imbalance.
Moreover, the film's pacing suffers due to its over-reliance on visual spectacle rather than character-driven storytelling. Moments that should evoke tension or excitement fall flat, as audiences are left waiting for the emotional stakes to rise. The film's climax, which should be a moment of catharsis, instead feels rushed and unearned.
The Legend of Ochi does succeed in its visual ambition, showcasing the beauty of the Carpathian landscape and utilizing practical effects to bring the Ochi to life. The puppet work is commendable, adding a tactile quality that enhances the film's fantasy elements. However, the film's reliance on these visuals cannot compensate for its lack of a compelling narrative.
As the film progresses, Yuri's journey becomes increasingly predictable, following the classic hero's quest structure without adding any new twists or insights. The film's conclusion, meant to resonate with themes of understanding and acceptance, feels more like a checklist of tropes rather than a satisfying resolution.
In the end, The Legend of Ochi is a film that may appeal to younger audiences with its colorful visuals and adventurous spirit, but it ultimately misses the mark for those seeking a deeper, more meaningful story. While A24 has a reputation for producing unique and thought-provoking films, this latest offering feels more like a missed opportunity.
As of April 25, 2025, The Legend of Ochi is now playing in theaters, inviting audiences to explore its enchanting world, even if the journey may not be as fulfilling as hoped.
