In celebration of Women’s History Month, Netflix’s original film Damsel couldn’t have arrived at a more opportune moment. Departing from the traditional Damsel-in-distress narrative, this dark fantasy introduces Princess Elodie, played by the renowned actress Millie Bobby Brown.
Anticipation for the film soared due to multiple advertisements for the film on TikTok that piqued the audience’s curiosity.
“I enjoyed the movie, it’s enchanting with its surreal scenes and the drama is what kept me at the edge of my seat. It’s not your typical princess movie,” said OH junior Iara Ferrer Nino.
Rather than the familiar trope of a young woman awaiting rescue by a prince in a medieval setting, Damsel subverts expectations by plunging Elodie into perilous depths, where she confronts dragons and navigates a treacherous cave.
The movie is a testament to female empowerment, offering a refreshing twist on the typical knight-in-shining-armor stereotype. It can be aptly described as Disney princess meets Game of Thrones, blending elements of fantasy with a contemporary edge.
Millie Bobby Brown delivers a captivating performance, embodying the spirit of empowered women throughout the film.
Despite its modest budget of 60-70 million, the costumes are lavish and incredibly detailed, perfectly complementing the fantasy aesthetic. The visuals are striking, capturing both the desperation and resilience of the character.
Themes of revenge and female empowerment resonate throughout the story, particularly in moments of betrayal where Elodie must rely on her own strength and cunning to survive. Despite occasional pacing issues, Elodie’s portrayal as a resilient and independent woman keeps viewers engaged as the plot unfolds with unexpected twists and turns.
With an IMDb rating of 6.1/10, Damsel has garnered mixed reviews, but those who appreciate the fantasy genre praise its high-quality special effects and CGI.
The film has found an enthusiastic audience on TikTok, where viewers revel in its revenge plot and thrilling dragon encounters. While Netflix movies can be hit-or-miss, Damsel offers an enjoyable escape for a movie night with friends.
In the end, Damsel may not excel in every aspect, but its empowering narrative and captivating visuals make it a worthwhile watch, especially for fans of fantasy.
I need this in my life. Great article
Loved this! Will definitely be watching over spring break!