"Rumours" - movie review

“Rumours blends dark humor and stunning visuals in a satirical tale of power gone astray.”

Now more than ever, the political landscape of our world feels ripe for satire. It’s the perfect time for a weird and grim film like Rumours, directed by Evan and Galen Johnson alongside Guy Maddin. The plot centers on the leaders of the G7 summit, who meet to draft a statement on a global crisis, only to get lost in the woods and encounter ancient relics that may have returned from the dead.

Rumours is driven by dry, conversational humor, set against a dreary and haunting backdrop that borders on sci-fi. The film’s greatest strength is its stunning, fog-laden setting, though the story often meanders through tangents, leaving some viewers grasping for more substance. In many ways, Rumours feels like an inside joke—whether the viewer “gets it” or not will likely dictate their enjoyment.

The standout cast, including Cate Blanchett, Charles Dance, Takehiro Hira, and Nikki Amuka-Bird, delivers sharp dialogue, bouncing between phrases and accusations that offer a glimpse into what it might be like to have such powerful figures in one room. However, the film’s consistent use of drab, dry humor—especially in the performances of Roy Dupuis and Rolando Ravello—can break the otherwise intense tone. The writing is clever, but how well it lands depends on how much the audience connects with the film’s unusual presentation. For some, it could be polarizing, but there’s certainly an audience that will find fulfillment in Rumours, particularly fans of smart, dark comedies.

As mentioned, Rumours will find its niche audience. Once it hits streaming platforms, its fanbase could grow even larger. Horror fans, in particular, will appreciate the film’s playful use of familiar tropes, with even the more obscure moments likely resonating with avid genre viewers. Rumours is smart, visually stunning, and undeniably strange. The question is: can it sustain your interest with its theater-play-style delivery? Head to the theaters and let us know what you think of Rumours in the comments.

4.5/5

Directed & Written by: Guy Maddin, Evan Johnson, Galen Johnson

Starring: Cate Blanchett, Roy Dupuis, Nikki Amuka-Bird, Charles Dance, Takehiro Hira, Denis Ménochet, Rolando Ravello, Zlatko Buric, Alicia Vikander