Kratt

Kratt is a 2020 Estonian fantasy-horror film directed by Rasmus Merivoo, which uniquely combines elements of folklore with modern societal issues. The film is set in a small Estonian village and carries a distinctive blend of dark humor, cultural critique, and folkloric myth-making. The narrative revolves around the lives of the residents of the village, particularly focusing on the experiences of two young siblings portrayed by Nora Merivoo and Harri Merivoo, and their grandmother, played by Mari Lill.

The plot of Kratt unfolds against the backdrop of the Estonian countryside—an environment steeped in history and ancient customs. The children are sent to spend the summer with their grandmother, a stern and traditional woman who embodies the old ways. This summer stay promises not only a break from the allure of modern technologies but also an immersion into the grandmother's strict regimen, rooted deeply in folklore and the practicalities of rural life. The film uses this premise to deftly explore the clash between the old and the new, between rural simplicity and technological complexity—a theme that resonates across generations.

Kratt surprises its audience with an intriguing mix of social commentary and ethereal mysticism. It invokes the story of Kratt, a creature from Estonian mythology created from household tools and scrap materials that can come alive when a pact with the devil is made. The mythical Kratt is traditionally bound to serve its master, performing hard labor and other tasks. However, there is always a cost to engaging with such otherworldly beings, and the consequences of meddling with powers beyond human comprehension become a central motif in the narrative. The film cleverly weaves this myth into contemporary life, where the younger generation's disconnection from nature and inclination towards gadgets and the internet echo a profound cultural and intergenerational divide.

The children, armed with little more than their ingenuity and a smartphone, become entrenched in the story of Kratt. Their keen interest in the creature is sparked by a combination of boredom, curiosity, and the influence of their grandmother's stories. This fascination sets in motion a series of events packed with both humor and horror, underpinning the movie's central quest—which is as much about building the Kratt as it is about the sibling's search for identity and understanding the world around them.

Mari Lill’s portrayal of the grandmother is a highlight of the film, bringing gravity and a sense of authenticity to the rural setting. Her character is the bridge between the past and the present, softly echoing the ancient traditions and values that are slowly being eroded by the encroaching modern world. She is the keeper of wisdom and the cultural guardian, yet her character is not without complexity and ambiguity, leaving the viewer to discern the layers of traditional knowledge against the follies often accompanying superstition.

As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Kratt is more than a folk tale come to life; it serves as a metaphor for the children's coming-of-age journey. The siblings’ attempt to navigate their grandmother's world, with all its oddities and rules, offers comedic relief but also acts as a mirror to society's challenges in managing technological advances and retaining cultural heritage. Their escapades with the mythical creature present unparalleled opportunities to face fears, strengthen familial bonds, and ultimately choose between the transitory allure of the digital age and the enduring richness of their cultural roots.

Director Rasmus Merivoo's approach to the film is ambitious, blending genres and tones to create an experience that is at once familiar and strange. The utilization of local folklore allows the audience to delve into Estonian cultural narratives, while the inclusion of modern societal dilemmas provides universal relatability. Kratt does not shy away from tackling themes such as the disintegration of communal life and the allure of materialism but does so with a light touch that makes the film as entertaining as it is thought-provoking.

Visually, the film strikes a delicate balance between the rustic beauty of the Estonian countryside and the eerie, surreal quality that comes with the territory of supernatural stories. The cinematography embraces the natural scenery, ensuring that the setting itself becomes a character that shapes the mood and the unfolding drama. The depiction of the Kratt creature itself is both whimsical and nightmarish, a testament to the creativity and craftsmanship involved in bringing a piece of folklore so vividly to life on screen.

In summary, Kratt is a uniquely Estonian film that tells a story rich in heritage and magic while remaining grounded in the real-life tensions between past and present, tradition and progress. Through the adventures of its young protagonists and their grappling with mythical forces, the film offers both a cautionary tale and an invitation to rediscover the enchantment of folklore within the modern world. With its multifaceted characters, sharp social commentary, and a tale that is as much haunting as it is humorous, Kratt is a distinctive cinematic experience that resonates with audiences both within and beyond Estonian borders.