Dust Bunny (2026) - Movie Review
Even the poster for this film goes hard.
What if I told you the creator of Pushing Up Daisies made a film set in the same world?
What if I told you it features insane violence?
Oh, and there might be a giant monster…
Let’s discuss.
Dust Bunny is a fantasy/action/comedy brought to us by the legendary mind of writer/director Bryan Fuller. Fuller is the genius behind 2007’s Pushing Up Daisies, 2003’s Dead Like Me, 2013’s Hannibal, and many more. His visual style and control over said vision are beyond reproach. The only criticisms I’ve ever had for his work are that he often takes too long to get to the point, but that isn’t an issue here. This is a film that should have been a blockbuster.
The film focuses on Aurora, a little girl with a big problem. The monster under her bed ate her foster parents, and she’s worried it’s going to eat her. Having witnessed her neighbor across the hall kill a dragon the night before, Aurora attempts to hire him to kill the beast. The man doesn’t believe her, but he decides to help. Unfortunately, old enemies come calling, as does the FBI, and soon, nowhere will be safe. Together, they navigate the shady underworld of a Bunraku Brooklyn. Will they solve the mystery of the mysterious menace under the floorboards, or will they end up with everyone else within the belly of the beast? Find out in tonight’s feature, Dust Bunny.
See this movie.
I know my synopsis sucks, but it’s because I don’t want to spoil anything. This is such an original film idea, executed to perfection. Every single performer in the film looks like they’re having the time of their lives.
No one more than the star, Mads Mikkelsen. Mikkelsen is mostly known for dark, brooding roles (see HANNIBAL), but he gets to flex his comedic timing. His performance here shows his range as a performer. His subtle changes in delivery when talking to Aurora, compared to his line delivery with adults in the film, are a masterful switch. As a frequent Fuller collaborator, it’s obvious that the star and director were on the same page.
The other star of the film is equally endearing. Sophie Sloan plays Aurora with a natural, world-weary grace. She’s accidentally sarcastic and matter-of-fact, just like little girls are. In a lesser actress's hands, the little girl could have been grating, but Sloan’s performance is heartfelt. You feel for her and her situation, and it makes you invested in the film.
The supporting cast is an incredible ensemble.
We are talking about amazing actors like Sheila Atim, David Dastmalchian, and Sigourney Weaver. Everyone brings their A-game, especially Weaver, who steals every scene she’s in.
The film direction, art design, and editing are flawless. This is a film that features long tracking shots, slow transitions, and avoids the jump cuts and other ADHD filmmaking techniques to get cheap thrills or to fill. This movie is as much about atmosphere as it is action. The bunraku/pop-up style world Fuller utilized in Pushing Up Daisies gets a budget upgrade and is a joy to watch.
It’s like Wes Anderson directed a John Wick film.
The practical effects are fantastic, but the CGI drops the ball. It’s not a deal breaker, as it’s pretty solid throughout the initial 2/3s of the film. However, the finale revealed the budgetary restrictions. However, if you aren’t looking for it, you probably won’t see the issues.
It’s neither here nor there because you need to see this movie. It’s fantastic for all ages and an absolutely fun, pop-corn crunching ride.
Check this one out on all digital platforms for rent, or if you’re lucky, catch it in a local theater.
You won’t be disappointed.
