Enjoy some chilling body horror this Friday evening from the comfort of home streaming
In the realm of horror cinema, the new release "Cuckoo" (2024) is a captivating addition, written and directed by Tilman Singer. This film takes audiences on a chilling journey into a small resort town in the German Alps, where a fractured family finds themselves amidst spooky happenings, eerie locals, and a sinister force lurking in the woods.
The plot revolves around a 17-year-old American teenager, Gretchen, who, after the loss of her mother, moves with her father's new family to this remote location. The initial tranquility is soon disrupted by paranormal events that add an unsettling layer to the already eerie atmosphere of the resort still under development. As Gretchen, played by Hunter Schafer in her first leading role, starts to notice bizarre noises, bloody visions, and inexplicable occurrences, she uncovers disturbing secrets about the resort and her own family.
The film's production design plays a significant role in setting the tone, with the resort showcased as an appealing place to visit that, upon closer inspection, feels oddly prison-like with its brutalist lines and eerie emptiness. The sound and visual design further contribute to an entertainingly uncanny atmosphere that immerses and isolates viewers, punctuated by hits of loopy gruesomeness.
Critics have praised "Cuckoo" for its atmospheric horror, practical effects, and a twisted, intense climax. The film fits within a mysterious and biological horror subgenre, incorporating elements of classic horror films such as "The Shining", "Midsommar", and "Rosemary's Baby". It has been noted for its discomforting atmosphere by The Guardian, who also called it "bonkers".
"Cuckoo" is not just a horror film; it is a blend of family drama and ambiguous, unresolved elements that encourage viewer interpretation. The film's narrative and visuals reward multiple viewings thanks to their layered, ambiguous storytelling.
Regarding its reception, "Cuckoo" is viewed as an unconventional, bold horror film that found favor on the festival circuit and among cult horror fans. While some might find its intense, vague yet thrilling nature frustrating, others appreciate the disturbing and unsettling tone paired with elegant direction.
For those eager to watch "Cuckoo", it is available to stream now on Now TV in the UK, Hulu in the US, and Netflix in Australia. It has also been released on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD since April 2025. For the latest streaming options, checking major platforms or dedicated movie rental services directly would be advisable.
[1] Rotten Tomatoes - Cuckoo (2024) [2] IMDb - Cuckoo (2024) [3] The Guardian - Cuckoo review – a bonkers, blood-soaked horror film with a killer soundtrack [4] Bloody Disgusting - Cuckoo Review: A Brutal, Eerie, and Unsettling Horror Film [5] Screen Rant - Cuckoo Review: A Mysterious and Disturbing Horror Film Worth Watching
- Despite the intense, vague, yet thrilling nature, "Cuckoo" has found favor on the festival circuit and among cult horror fans.
- The film's nail-biting climax and practical effects have earned praise from critical reviews.
- The Guardian completed a review of "Cuckoo," describing it as "bonkers" but commending its discomforting atmosphere and impressive soundtrack.
- For those wanting to delve into this psychological horror, "Cuckoo" can be streamed on Now TV in the UK, Hulu in the US, and Netflix in Australia.
- For those who prefer physical media, the film is available to purchase on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD since April 2025.
- To stay updated on streaming options, fans can check prominent platforms like Now TV, Hulu, Netflix, or dedicated movie rental services directly.
