‘Sasquatch Sunset’ is undeniably weird but also strangely beautiful.

I finally got around to watching Sasquatch Sunset. Firstly, let me tell you, this film is not for everyone. But suppose you’re up for 88 minutes of wordless grunts, bizarre and at times vulgar, but oddly captivating imagery, accompanied by stunning shots of the untamed wilderness. In that case, it is a unique and memorable viewing experience.

The story, or perhaps lack of one, follows a Sasquatch family of four over a year as they navigate the challenges of survival in the wilderness. What is remarkable is how the film captures both the mundane and dramatic moments of their simple existence, from foraging for food to facing the harsh realities of Mother Nature.

The film stars Jesse Eisenberg, Riley Keough, Christophe Zajac-Denek, and Nathan Zellner, who also co-wrote and directed the film alongside his brother, David. However, you’d never know it’s them under the hyper-realistic costumes and makeup. One of the film’s most impressive achievements is the complete transformation of the cast. Their performances are so committed that you forget you’re watching actors in Sasquatch suits. With no dialogue or traditional plot to lean on, the cast had the daunting task of keeping things interesting for the 89-minute runtime. To my surprise, they succeeded beyond my expectations.

The film fully embraces its absurd and unconventional concept and goes with it. You witness these creatures living their everyday lives, from eating and fornicating to sleeping and relieving themselves more time than I can recall watching in any movie. These quiet, mundane moments periodically intercut with tension and suspense as they face the unforgiving wilderness they call home.

What truly elevates the film is the depth given to each individual Sasquatch. Despite their similar appearance, each has a distinct personality. A beautiful sense of humanity emerges from each one, further emphasised by the introduction of a baby Sasquatch in the latter part of the film. I won’t spoil it, but there were several scenes where I found myself unexpectedly moved. There are few deeper messages to the film, but for me personally, I would prefer to let you discover them.

Sasquatch Sunset is undeniably weird but also strangely beautiful.