Sisterly Strange: Werner Herzog's 'Bucking Fastard' Offers Quirky Charm, Lacks Depth

Werner Herzog's latest film, Bucking Fastard, presents a wonderfully odd tale featuring sisters Jean and Joan Holbrooke, played by Kate and Rooney Mara. The duo's synchronized movements and speech create a fascinating dynamic that captivates audiences, at least initially. Their unusual outfits, reminiscent of a bizarre blend of the Olsen twins and medieval monks, set the stage for this peculiar story of unfulfilled desire and quirkiness.

The film opens with the sisters recounting a shared dream about squawking birds, leading to a bizarre sequence in an aviary that hints at deeper meanings but ultimately doesn’t hold any significance in the narrative. Soon, the sisters find themselves in a courtroom, embroiled in a case against their former lover, Gareth Mulroney, played by Orlando Bloom. His comedic declaration, “My cowgirls, they rode me well!” underlines their tumultuous relationship and sets the tone for the film's dark humor.

As the Holbrooke sisters attempt to disrupt Gareth's new marriage, the film provides a series of entertaining flashbacks that reveal their chaotic love life. However, once they leave their childhood home for the city, the narrative begins to lose steam. Their escapades with social services employee Timothy (Domhnall Gleeson) and their amusing naivety about modern technology add humor but fail to yield a cohesive storyline.

One standout moment occurs when they crash a stranger's wedding, further showcasing their oddball nature. The sisters eventually travel to their Auntie Louise’s home, where they engage in an extensive project involving tunnels believed to connect to the Orkney Islands. This shift in setting allows their eccentricities to blend seamlessly into the surroundings.

Despite Herzog’s evident affection for bizarre narratives, Bucking Fastard falls short of delivering a profound exploration of sibling dynamics. The film features captivating performances from the Mara sisters, who fully embody their characters' unique bond. Still, Herzog’s focus on quirkiness over depth leaves the audience longing for a more substantial experience. Although the film is dedicated to David Lynch, it lacks the narrative finesse that could elevate its eccentricities into something more meaningful.

Source: www.hollywoodreporter.com