If you are looking for a conventional film that tells a complete story, Bucking Fastard is not it. In fact, the film feels more like three incomplete stories that jump forward without rhyme or reason. Of course we are talking about a Werner Herzog film, and one he dedicated to his esteemed colleague David Lynch. That alone should tell viewers what they are in for. Still, it’s really hard to prepare for a film of this nature.
In the film, Kate and Rooney Mara play twin sisters who speak mostly with one voice. That in itself is a feat that draws viewers in almost immediately due to its extremely difficulty. It’s a dual performance that might make viewers think they are in for something special. Unfortunately they are not, because the performances are really the only thing interesting about the film.
Bucking Fastard has a big problem that becomes very obvious about twenty or thirty minutes in. While it is interesting seeing the world from the twins point of view, it doesn’t make a compelling story. The plot seems too much of a mouthful to explain and it just involves the twins’ living situations. And not a very good one.
Unfortunately, Bucking Fastard is a trippy, movie without a lot of substance. It feels like a rare misstep for Herzog who has made a career out making stylized films. While it is fun to watch for a little bit, it’s not something you will want to see ever again.
- Rated: 15
- Genre: Drama, Fantasy
- Release Date: 9/14/2026
- Directed by: Werner Herzog
- Starring: Domhnall Gleeson, Kate Mara, Orlando Bloom, Rooney Mara
- Produced by: Agnes Chu, Ariel Leon Isacovitch, Clara Wu Tsai, Werner Herzog
- Written by: Werner Herzog
- Studio: Gateway to Orkney, Providence Road Entertainment
