The Legend of Ochi (2025)

Isaiah Saxon’s feature debut, The Legend of Ochi, is a visually striking fantasy adventure that recalls the spirit of 1980s storytelling while bringing a fresh, tactile artistry to the screen. Featuring Helena Zengel, Willem Dafoe, Emily Watson, and Finn Wolfhard, the film centers on Yuri, a quiet farm girl who discovers a mysterious creature known as an Ochi and embarks on a journey through the mythical land of Carpathia to return it to its home.

Yuri’s journey becomes more than a rescue mission—it’s a coming-of-age story wrapped in themes of trust, intergenerational trauma, and the healing power of nature. Along the way, she reconnects with her estranged mother and confronts the long-standing fears that have shaped her village’s harsh beliefs about the outside world.

The true star of the film, however, may be its visuals. Shot in Romania with a deep love for practical effects, the landscapes are breathtaking, enhanced with matte paintings, miniatures, and puppetry. The Ochi creature itself is a marvel of animatronics—evocative of classics like E.T. or The Dark Crystal. There’s a gentle magic to the way the world is presented, with minimal CGI and maximum craftsmanship.

While the film is emotionally resonant and visually rich, its pacing is deliberately slow. Some stretches of the story unfold in silence, with long scenic shots and wordless exchanges. This approach may test viewers expecting fast-paced action, but it rewards those who appreciate atmosphere and emotional subtlety.

Helena Zengel gives a nuanced performance, carrying the film with very little dialogue. Willem Dafoe brings gravitas as her father Maxim, though his role is more symbolic than deeply explored. Emily Watson and Finn Wolfhard offer brief but effective turns as guiding forces in Yuri’s journey.

Commentary:

The Legend of Ochi is a rare modern fantasy that trusts its audience to feel rather than be told. It’s not a conventional blockbuster—it’s slower, quieter, and more meditative—but it offers something increasingly uncommon: a handmade world built with care and conviction. It speaks softly, but it lingers long after.

While the story may follow familiar arcs, the execution is heartfelt. For those who miss the texture and emotion of older fantasy films, this one is a welcome return to form. Dreamy, gentle, and sincere—it’s a beautiful cinematic fable.