Review: 'Damsel' Starring Millie Bobby Brown - A Mixed Bag of Adventure and Empowerment

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Millie Bobby Brown has expanded her repertoire beyond the hit series "Stranger Things," showcasing her talent in Netflix's "Enola Holmes" mysteries and now in the upcoming film "Damsel." In this epic survival fantasy, Brown stars as Elodie, a princess who, after agreeing to marry a prince, discovers a dark secret: his family plans to sacrifice her. Elodie must use her wit and survival skills to evade a fearsome dragon and those who seek her demise.

Critics' opinions on "Damsel" are divided. While some commend Brown's performance and the film's message of female empowerment, others criticize its weak script. Alex Harrison of ScreenRant gives the movie a mere 1.5 stars out of 5, lamenting its missed potential due to disjointed storytelling. Despite its flaws, the film has been praised for its imaginative creature design and unique premise.

Nick Schager of The Daily Beast advises skipping "Damsel," describing it as a formulaic fairy tale lacking in originality. However, Mireia Mullor of Digital Spy offers a more positive review, rating the film 3 out of 5 stars for its entertaining adventure and subversion of traditional fairy tale tropes. She acknowledges its shortcomings but believes it delivers a worthwhile message of female empowerment.

Peter Debruge of Variety applauds the film's progressive stance, noting that it presents a strong female lead without the traditional "damsel in distress" narrative. Nell Minow of RogerEbert.com also finds merit in "Damsel," particularly its immersive settings and feminist twists. She suggests that while the film may not be perfect, it offers an enjoyable viewing experience, especially for fans of fantasy.

In conclusion, "Damsel" offers a unique spin on the classic fairy tale formula, with Millie Bobby Brown delivering a compelling performance as a resourceful princess. While some critics find fault with its storytelling and predictability, others appreciate its message of female empowerment and entertaining adventure. Whether or not you choose to watch "Damsel" may depend on your interest in fantasy films and your appreciation for Brown's acting prowess.