Reviews: Kratt (2020) Movie Review
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Where does Kratt (2020) stand among horror films? Our review examines the scares, pacing, and what makes it unique in the genre.
Kratt (2020) is an Estonian folklore-inspired horror-comedy that blends dark humor, family dynamics, and supernatural terror into a unique cinematic experience. The film follows two siblings, Mia and Kevin, who are sent to their grandmother’s rural home while their parents go on a digital detox retreat. Bored and longing for their phones, the kids stumble upon an old grimoire that reveals how to create a Kratt—an ancient Estonian mythological servant that does your bidding in exchange for a soul.
Kratt (2020) – A Quirky Folklore Horror-Comedy with a Dark Twist
Plot, Themes, and Character Development
At first, the Kratt appears to be an amusing, helpful entity, but as with all deals involving dark forces, things spiral out of control. The film cleverly parodies modern society’s dependence on technology, laziness, and the need for instant gratification while maintaining an engaging mix of folklore, absurdist humor, and genuine horror.
Acting and Cinematography
The cast delivers believable and often hilarious performances, with Nora Merivoo and Harri Merivoo shining as the mischievous siblings. Their interactions with their old-fashioned but endearing grandmother (Mari Lill) add warmth and charm, making the film as much about family and generational gaps as it is about supernatural horror.
Visually, Kratt makes excellent use of its countryside setting, creating an idyllic yet eerie atmosphere that enhances the film’s folk-horror elements. The cinematography balances dark, suspenseful imagery with colorful, comedic sequences, making for a visually dynamic experience.
Directing Style, Strengths, and Weaknesses
Director Rasmus Merivoo crafts a film that doesn’t take itself too seriously but still manages to offer a compelling and well-executed story. He expertly blends folk horror with absurdist humor, creating an experience reminiscent of films like Trollhunter or Rare Exports.
Strengths:
- Unique Folklore Concept – The mythology of the Kratt is well-explored, making for a fresh take on supernatural horror.
- Engaging Humor – The film balances dark comedy and satire, making it a fun yet eerie watch.
- Strong Performances – The cast, especially the young leads and Mari Lill as the grandmother, bring depth and charm to the film.
- Beautiful Cinematography – The rustic countryside setting and mix of horror and humor create a visually compelling experience.
Weaknesses:
- Uneven Pacing – The first half takes time to build up, and some comedic sequences slow down the tension.
- Lack of Full Horror Impact – While it has horror elements, it leans more toward dark fantasy and satire, which might not satisfy hardcore horror fans.
- Some Jokes Don’t Land – The film’s satirical humor is hit-or-miss, depending on the audience’s familiarity with Estonian culture and folklore.
Final Verdict & Score: 7/10
Kratt is a clever and entertaining folk-horror comedy that successfully mixes mythology, dark humor, and social commentary. While it may not be outright terrifying, its charm, wit, and originality make it a worthwhile watch for fans of quirky horror films.
Sources Used to Shape This Review
Insights in this review are drawn from director interviews, fan commentary, production notes, and long-form breakdowns across genre-specific platforms. Content is written uniquely and reviewed for accuracy.
- Kratt Rating Scores
- Our Score: 7/10
- Overall Score: 7.46/10
- IMDB: 6.1/10
- Rotten Tomatoes: 9.3/10
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