The Legend of Ochi Review: A Straightforward Fantasy Showcasing Remarkable Craftsmanship and Performances

      The Legend of Ochi, crafted by Isaiah Saxon as both writer and director, is a charming adventure fueled by creativity and artistry. It has the lasting quality of a film meant to endure over time. With minimal dialogue and an emphasis on style, the story unfolds in a small village on the island of Carpathia, where residents live in fear of the Ochi, a seemingly ferocious species of primate lurking in the nearby forest. Willem Dafoe portrays Maxim, a warrior elder entrusted with the village's children, whom he trains to confront the feared beasts. Among the children are Petro (Finn Wolfhard) and Maxim's daughter Yuri (Helena Zengel). When Yuri discovers an injured baby Ochi, she chooses to nurture it and return it to its home, leading her to flee from Maxim and his militaristic approach.

      While the narrative follows a familiar family saga structure, Saxon cleverly adds complexity with the introduction of an estranged mother (the remarkable Emily Watson), who seeks to understand and connect with the Ochi, set against a beautifully enchanting yet ominous natural backdrop. The film's aesthetic draws from a broad cinematic history, employing matte paintings to enhance the landscape, puppetry for the titular creatures, and digital effects to polish the necessary scenes. Saxon collaborates with Daren Rabinovitch and Sean Hellfritsch, collectively known as Encyclopedia Pictura, known for their standout music videos from the 2000s, imbibing The Legend of Ochi with a surreal, handcrafted essence.

      Zengel delivers a strong performance as the lead, although she is often outshined by the various actors bringing the baby Ochi to life, showcasing a remarkable teamwork dynamic. Watson stands out among the human cast as she embodies a character who exudes empathy amid a rigid exterior. She is truly a uniquely talented performer whose specific qualities are often taken for granted. In a role that could easily fall into clichés, Watson's portrayal guarantees that it remains distinctive.

      At first glance, The Legend of Ochi presents a straightforward storyline, bordering on simplistic. However, repeat viewings uncover deeper character nuances and scene complexities that enrich the overall experience. Petro, played by Wolfhard, emerges as an adopted figure whose newfound courage stands in contrast to his inherent kindness. The young actor portrays this dynamic exceptionally well in a limited amount of screen presence. Additionally, a raw yet humorous confrontation between Dafoe and Watson feels authentically lived-in.

      Saxon demonstrates confidence as a filmmaker with a clear vision, which significantly contributes to the film's success. Creating a world is one task, but making that world feel like it has always existed, waiting to be explored, is another. The Legend of Ochi feels as if it has always been part of our cultural landscape, and we are thrilled to have finally unearthed it.

      The Legend of Ochi is currently in limited release and will expand nationwide on April 25.