The Legend of Ochi Review: A Visually Enchanting A24 Fairytale

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Isaiah Saxon’s “The Legend of Ochi” is a movie that creates an enchanting environment with intricate visuals and a subtle air of enchantment. This live-action fairy tale resembles the work of Studio Ghibli, as well as films like E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial and Lilo & Stitch, and Saxon’s first film is meticulously constructed with emotion. Although its storyline follows a traditional pattern, its presentation transforms it into an enjoyable journey, reinforced by excellent camera work, music, and acting.

Located in a remote northern village on the island of Carpathia, The Legend of Ochi unfolds around Yuri (Helena Zengel), a young farm girl whose life is influenced by her protective father Maxim (Willem Dafoe). Villagers are wary of the Ochi, mythical beings who reside beyond their safe boundaries. When Yuri finds an injured baby Ochi, her curiosity and kindness propel her on a quest to reunite it with its kin. Joined by the hesitant Petro (Finn Wolfhard) and steadfast guardian Dasha (Emily Watson), Yuri embarks on a voyage that tests her perception of reality.

1) The narrative framework of the movie is traditional, echoing familiar “child-creature” connections found in numerous previous films. Yet, Saxon’s direction adds nuances that keep viewers interested. The bond between Yuri and baby Ochi lies at the heart of the film, offering a mix of sweet innocence and occasional unease. In some instances, it even seems reminiscent of a kid-friendly adaptation of The Mandalorian, where Ochi appears as a lovable, Grogu-like character that viewers can quickly connect with. The design for Ochi is exceptional, and many might be tempted to adopt one as their own pet.

Filmmaker Evan Prosofsky masterfully constructs an immersive, vibrant universe, meticulously portraying the mystical forests, sunlit fields, and dusky heavens of Carpathia. The setting appears authentic and evocative, while the Ochi creatures, a blend of practical and digital effects, seamlessly inhabit their surroundings. This film stands out as one of the most visually captivating productions in recent years. Virtually every scene brims with vitality and hue, crafting a magical realm that audiences yearn to explore. The visuals are stunning to behold and the narrative is deserving of its tale.

David Longstreth’s score enhances the visuals with an intriguing and emotional feel. The music accentuates crucial scenes without overwhelming them, contributing to the movie’s ambiance in a way that amplifies its narrative. The music has a bittersweet undertone that gives this film a solid foundation. While it may at times seem like another retelling of a familiar tale, stories evolve across generations. For instance, there were children who first encountered E.T., Lilo & Stitch, and How to Train Your Dragon when they were young, and this could be the story that resonates with a new generation.

The movie benefits significantly from the powerful performance of Helena Zengel, one of the standout child actors of the past ten years. Zengel delivers a convincing and emotive portrayal of Yuri, revealing her character’s inquisitiveness and emotional evolution. The transformation of Yuri from timid to self-reliant is depicted sincerely. Willem Dafoe’s interpretation of Maxim is balanced and thoughtful, showcasing a father figure wrestling with the tension between caution and encouraging his daughter’s adventures. Finn Wolfhard injects some humorous moments as Petro, while Emily Watson’s Dasha lends a stable and realistic feel to the narrative.

In this movie, the creators skillfully build an intriguing universe where Carpathia seems like a unique place with its own traditions, apprehensions, and tales revolving around the Ochi. This adds depth to the narrative, making the adventure feel significant and captivating. Although the plot follows a typical pattern, Saxon’s innovative visual storytelling and tempo keep it intriguing. The film moves smoothly, balancing peaceful moments with action-packed scenes. Certain aspects may be foreseeable, especially towards the end, but the movie remains engaging due to its impressive presentation and acting.

One subtle yet powerful aspect of the movie lies in its examination of fear and how it influences our views. The villagers’ apprehension towards the Ochi seems deeply ingrained in tradition rather than personal encounters, reflecting how societies can be swayed by ancestral warnings instead of firsthand knowledge. As Yuri delves deeper into the creatures, the film hints that fear is frequently misplaced or magnified and that curiosity and compassion are vital to dispel misunderstandings. Although this theme isn’t heavily stressed, it enriches Yuri’s adventure and offers a profound subtext that resonates with the film’s emotional heart.

The Legend of Ochi marks a promising first effort by Isaiah Saxon. It boasts impressive visuals, a fitting soundtrack, and a convincing lead role. Although it doesn’t offer unique storylines, the way it is presented keeps viewers hooked. Reminiscent of a Studio Ghibli animation with a hint of Pixar flair, its attention to detail in world-building and emotional depth could appeal to fans. While not revolutionary, The Legend of Ochi is a visually intelligent and heartfelt production.

SCORE: 7/10

According to the ComingSoon review guidelines, a rating of 7 means “Good.” This indicates an entertaining piece that’s generally worth watching, though it might not resonate with all viewers.

For transparency, we were invited to attend the New York International Children’s Film Festival to write our review on The Legend of Ochi.

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2025-04-19 00:40