Title: “Netflix’s ‘Damsel’ Falls Short of Expectations Despite Strong Female Lead”
In the world of fairy tales and heroic knights, Netflix’s latest film “Damsel” takes a different approach with its protagonist, Elodie, played by Millie Bobby Brown. The movie, directed by Juan Carlos Fresnadillo and written by Dan Mazeau, follows Elodie, a princess from a poor kingdom who agrees to marry a prince from a wealthier realm, only to uncover a dark secret.
While the film attempts to showcase a strong female lead in Elodie, it falls short in delivering a compelling story. The movie draws comparisons to the feminist action film “Ready or Not,” but lacks the same level of depth and intrigue. Despite featuring dragons, castles, and a resourceful heroine, “Damsel” struggles with pacing issues and a lackluster plot twist.
The visual effects in the film are criticized for appearing cheap, a common issue with made-for-Netflix movies. Additionally, the repetitive obstacles Elodie faces in her quest for survival make the movie feel stagnant and drawn out. The payoff of the story’s central mystery also leaves much to be desired.
“Damsel” serves as a reminder that simply having a “strong female lead” is not enough to make a movie successful. Audiences crave well-developed supporting characters, a compelling plot, and a sense of authenticity in their heroines. The film’s portrayal of Elodie as a flawless, two-dimensional character may be aspirational, but it lacks the depth needed to truly resonate with viewers.
Ultimately, “Damsel” may appeal to fans of Millie Bobby Brown and younger audiences, but it falls short of delivering a truly captivating cinematic experience. As the film streams on Netflix, viewers may find themselves yearning for a more nuanced and engaging portrayal of female empowerment on screen.
