Herzog's 'Bucking Fastard' Divides Critics at Venice Despite Mara Sisters' Ovation

Key points

• The film received a 6.5 to 7.5-minute standing ovation at its world premiere in Venice.
• It is the first on-screen pairing for real-life sisters Rooney and Kate Mara, who play identical twins.
• The plot is loosely inspired by the 1980s UK case of twins Freda and Greta Chaplin but transposed to Ireland.
• The film is competing for the Golden Lion after Herzog declined a non-competition slot at Cannes.
• Reviews are polarized, with some praising the tender character study and others calling it a wasted opportunity.

Background

Werner Herzog returned to Venice one year after receiving the festival’s Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement. The film had previously been invited to Cannes but Herzog declined the offer because it was not in competition, leading Venice to select it for its main lineup.

How outlets are covering it

Deadline and Variety reported a warm reception, noting a 6.5 to 7.5-minute ovation and emotional embraces between the cast. However, The Guardian’s review was scathing, calling the film a 'dud' that wastes the talents of the Mara sisters. Deadline’s Damon Wise offered a mixed view, describing it as a 'strangely tender portrait' that veers widely from the true story. The outlets agree on the film’s inspiration from the Chaplin twins but disagree on its artistic merit.

Why it matters

The film marks a significant career moment for the Mara sisters and a competitive entry for Herzog at a major festival, highlighting the unpredictable nature of critical reception at premieres.

What to watch

The film will compete for the Golden Lion at the 83rd Venice Film Festival, with results expected in the coming days.