The Legend of Ochi, directed by Isaiah Saxon, is a coming-of-age tale about a girl named Yuri who befriends a monster. The film stars Helena Zengel as Yuri, Willem Dafoe as her father, and Emily Watson as her mother, with Finn Wolfhard as her adopted brother Petro. Filmed in Romania, the movie balances natural beauty with realism, showcasing a world where the mythical Ochi creatures exist alongside human inhabitants.
Set on the island of Carpathia, the story unfolds in a village where the Ochi, effectively nocturnal creatures, are feared by the locals. Yuri, who lives with her father Maxim (played by Dafoe), has been raised to believe that these creatures are dangerous and responsible for her family's troubles. Her father is obsessed with hunting the Ochi, leading a band of local boys in nightly hunts. In contrast, her mother, who lost her hand to an Ochi bite, has a more nuanced understanding of the creatures.
The film introduces Yuri as a lonely tween who, despite her father’s teachings, discovers her empathy for the Ochi after encountering an injured baby Ochi that has become separated from its family. This pivotal moment marks the beginning of her journey of self-discovery and rebellion against her father's destructive mindset. "They destroyed my family," Yuri explains, referring to the Ochi, but as the film progresses, it becomes clear that her father’s obsession with hunting them has caused more harm than good.
The Ochi themselves are brought to life through stunning puppetry, reminiscent of beloved characters like E.T. and Gizmo from Gremlins. Saxon’s choice to use puppets rather than CGI adds a unique charm to the film, allowing for a tangible connection between the characters. The infant Ochi, with its large eyes and expressive movements, evokes a sense of wonder and innocence. Saxon emphasizes the importance of puppetry, stating, "Puppetry is such an ancient art form... our brain as we watch the human hand give life to a character is just fully accepting of it."
In creating the Ochi’s distinctive sound, Saxon drew inspiration from a YouTube throat whistler named Paul Manalatos. He elaborated, "The goal from the beginning was to create a believable animal language that had a musical quality... I searched high and low for inspiration and I landed on this throat whistler..." Manalatos was brought into the production to help shape the unique vocalizations that define the Ochi, blending his sounds with those of mockingbirds and whales to create a rich auditory experience.
The film also explores the complexities of familial relationships and the struggle between understanding and fear. Yuri's adopted brother Petro, played by Finn Wolfhard, embodies this conflict. He is torn between loyalty to his father and the compassionate bond he shares with Yuri and the Ochi. Wolfhard describes Petro as a character who "cares a lot about Yuri and about animals generally" but is hindered by the toxic masculinity instilled in him by Maxim.
Emily Watson, who plays Dasha, Yuri's estranged mother, brings depth to the narrative as she navigates her own complicated history with the Ochi. Watson remarked, "It's a kids' movie, and it's a beautiful, inspiring, very, very positive story, but it's got these really grown-up and messed-up people in it who don't behave like typical characters in those kinds of stories." This blend of whimsy and realism sets The Legend of Ochi apart from conventional children’s films.
Despite its fantastical elements, the film addresses real-world issues such as fear of the unknown and the importance of empathy. As Yuri embarks on her journey to help the baby Ochi find its family, she learns valuable lessons about coexistence and compassion. The bond that forms between Yuri and the Ochi serves as a metaphor for understanding and acceptance in a world often driven by fear and misunderstanding.
Critics have praised the film for its heartfelt storytelling and innovative use of puppetry. The Legend of Ochi is described as a gorgeous tribute to the fantasy genre, reminiscent of classic films that captured the magic of childhood imagination. Saxon’s vision for the film was clear from the beginning, as he aimed to create a narrative that resonates with both children and adults, challenging the notion that all family films must adhere to formulaic tropes.
As audiences flock to theaters, The Legend of Ochi stands out as a testament to original storytelling in an era dominated by adaptations and sequels. Saxon’s dedication to crafting a unique cinematic experience has paid off, making the film a must-see for families and fantasy enthusiasts alike. It opened wide on April 25, 2025, and is poised to capture the hearts of viewers with its enchanting tale of friendship and understanding.
In an age where digital effects often overshadow practical artistry, The Legend of Ochi serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling through tangible, handcrafted elements. The film not only entertains but also encourages viewers to reflect on their relationships with others and the world around them. By the end of the film, audiences are left with a sense of wonder and hope, feeling compelled to embrace the lessons of empathy and coexistence that The Legend of Ochi so beautifully conveys.
