Damsel

Damsel thrusts viewers into the world of Princess Elodie, betrothed to Prince Henry of the Aurea kingdom, only to uncover the dark secrets surrounding her new royal family and their sinister relationship with a formidable dragon.

What sets Damsel apart is its adept manipulation of genre expectations. While initially poised as a fantasy survival narrative with a lone protagonist, the film masterfully weaves a pervasive sense of horror throughout. From subtle visual cues to the haunting score by David Fleming, every element contributes to an atmosphere thick with foreboding. The revelation of the dragon's ability to communicate further amplifies the impending danger, setting the stage for a gripping tale of survival.

Millie Bobby Brown's portrayal of Elodie is commendable, capturing her transformation from a dutiful princess to a determined warrior. Additionally, Shohreh Aghdashloo's portrayal of the Dragon adds a chilling depth to the antagonist, enhancing every scene with a palpable sense of menace. However, it is Robin Wright's portrayal of Queen Isabelle that truly shines as the standout performance of the film. Wright's regal authority and calculated malevolence elevate the character from a mere antagonist to a formidable force to be reckoned with.

Despite its strengths, Damsel falls short in its predictability. The narrative arc follows a familiar trajectory, with few surprises along the way. Elodie's sudden prowess in combat feels inadequately explained, detracting from the film's credibility. Additionally, the lackluster world-building leaves much to be desired, with both royal families and their respective kingdoms feeling underdeveloped.

Visually, Damsel struggles to immerse viewers in its world, with CGI effects failing to impress. The reveal of the dragon is particularly disappointing, lacking the realism needed to suspend disbelief. The poorly rendered CGI creates a jarring contrast with the live-action elements, detracting from the overall viewing experience. To add insult to injury, the film's choice to close with a lackluster rendition of "Ring of Fire" feels like a missed opportunity for a memorable ending.

Ray Winstone's subdued performance as Lord Bayford further dampens the film's impact, while Angela Bassett's exaggerated portrayal as Lady Bayford feels out of place.

In conclusion, Damsel is a film with untapped potential. Despite its atmospheric tension and standout performances, it ultimately fails to deliver a truly captivating narrative or immersive visual experience. While it may satisfy fans of the genre, its shortcomings prevent it from reaching its full potential.

I would give Damsel a 4.5/10.