The Sterile Cuckoo

First love... if it happens to you once, you're lucky

1969 • 107 min • Comedy · Drama

Join the Angel Guild Write your review Sign in to rate and review

Synopsis

Uptight college freshman Jerry Payne finds a carefree friend in zany Pookie. After an awkward meeting on the bus, Pookie quickly works her way into Jerry's life. She makes an unannounced visit to Jerry's campus, and before long annoyance turns to affection, and friendship turns to romance. But with Pookie's increasingly neurotic behavior, how long can this love affair last?

Our family guide

Best from age 14

Movie Knight Score

32 reviews

55 Audience · 32 · 100%

An awkward college freshman connects with an eccentric young woman, leading to an intense and unconventional romance. Their relationship faces challenges as her behavior becomes increasingly erratic, exploring themes of first love and individuality.

Violence & peril: 0/10
Language: 2/10
Drinking, drugs & smoking: 3/10
Romance & sensuality: 3/10
Scary moments: 0/10

Heads up

Some mature themes regarding mental health
Characters drink and smoke casually
Implied sexual content, no nudity

What it models well

Embracing individuality
First love and relationships
Navigating college life

Talk about it after

The complexities of young love
Coping with emotional challenges
Understanding different personalities

Written by the Movie Knight editorial team for The Sterile Cuckoo. Our own words, our own scoring — always double-check against your family's standards.