[Fantasia ’21] ‘Kratt’ Review: Estonian horror comedy looks at the global and demonic impact of idle hands

What do bored children, the occult, a governor, and environmentalists have in common? Not much, but they find equal footing in Rasmus Merivoo’s Estonian horror comedy Kratt. This quirky and bloody film is a humorous indictment on social media, politics, and the hypocrisy of parenthood. 

Kevin and Mia are outraged to discover their parents have left them in the care of their grandmother Helju, while they sneak away on an adults only vacation. To add to their preteen angst, their parents left them without cell phones. Kevin needs to play games and Mia has to tend to her Instagram followers. What can they do to pass the time? With the help of some local weird kids, they perform a ritual that goes awry and turns their grandmother into a monster. 

Kratt is a fun film that is almost suitable for the entire family, provided some eyes are shut during some pretty gory scenes. The plot is a unique twist on folklore and does an excellent job at blending the modern with the archaic. Kratt has a lot of wholesome and sweet moments and the humor is clever. In addition to the main plot, there are some extended storylines that surround the film. While it may be hard to determine how they are all connected at times, they end up converging in the most absurd and entertaining manner. 

Kratt is a film for every person who has ever uttered the phrase “I’m bored” and received the response of “I’ll give you something to do.” It sort of vindicates the need for phone usage while condemning social media at the same time. Merivoo’s film artfully expresses that technology is the cause and solution to all problems. Kratt is full of odd contradictions and subplots, but it is an overall fun watch with heart.  Kratt is currently playing at the Fantasia Film Festival.

The Fantasia Film Festival takes place in person and online from August 5 – August 25