Fantasy films often employ a familiar trope: damsels in distress. Traditionally depicted as helpless maidens who depend on heroic knights to save them, this archetype has long been a part of stories for centuries. Netflix’s forthcoming film Damsel takes an unconventional route by telling a tale about an independent young woman who must use all her resources and courage to survive independently.
Release Date
- 2024
Director
- Juan Carlos Fresnadillo
Known for: 28 Weeks Later and Intruders
Cast
- Millie Bobby Brown as Elodie
- Robin Wright as Lady Bayford
- Angela Bassett as the Red Priestess
- Nick Robinson as Prince Samuel
- Ray Winstone as King
- Shohreh Aghdashloo as Queen
Characters
- Elodie (Millie Bobby Brown)
- Lady Bayford (Robin Wright)
- Red Priestess (Angela Bassett)
- Prince Samuel (Nick Robinson)
- King (Ray Winstone)
- Queen (Shohreh Aghdashloo)
A Subversion of Expectations
Damsel stars Millie Bobby Brown as Elodie, an independent and vibrant young woman who agrees to marry a charming prince but soon discovers she has been tricked into becoming a sacrifice to appease an evil dragon. Cast into an underground pit against this fearsome creature armed only with her intelligence and resolve.
A Heroine’s Journey
Contrary to traditional fairy tale princesses, Elodie actively participates in her story. Instead of waiting for someone else to save her, she takes matters into her own hands, fighting for survival against all odds. This story shows women that even in times of great adversity, they possess the strength and resilience needed to triumph against obstacles.
A Dark and Gritty Fantasy World
Damsel takes place in an unusual world that starkly contrasts the colourful fantasy films we are used to seeing. Instead, this grim realm where danger lurks around every corner underscores Elodie’s harsh reality while emphasizing her need for courage to survive.
A Director’s Vision
Juan Carlos Fresnadillo is known for creating viscerally engaging films like 28 Weeks Later and Intruders that combine dark themes with eye-catching cinematography to craft captivating and sometimes unnerving tales – bringing something new to the fantasy genre that remains captivating yet disturbing at the same time. Damsel follows suit.
A Must-See for Fantasy Fans
Damsel is an entertaining and thought-provoking film that challenges traditional notions of femininity and heroism. Boasting an engaging protagonist, dark setting, and visually striking cinematography, Damsel will no doubt appeal to fans of fantasy cinema looking for something fresh and different in this genre.
What is Damsel?
Damsel is a 2024 American Western film directed and written by Rodrigo Garcia and Phil Hay. Starring Millie Bobby Brown, Robin Wright and Stephen McKinley Henderson; Eloise (Millie Bobby Brown) has been kidnapped and forced into marriage with an outlaw named Alfie; Eloise must find ways to escape her captor and return home in order to survive the ordeal.
Is Damsel a good movie?
Critics have had mixed opinions of Damsel. Some have praised its performances and unique take on Westerns while others have criticised its violence and slow pace.
What is the age rating for Damsel?
Damsel is rated R for violence and language content.
What is the plot of Damsel?
At the lawless American frontier, Eloise is abducted by a cruel outlaw named Silas and forced into marriage with him. She must find a way out and return home while making friends along her journey – befriending an unlikely group of outcasts along her way who help guide her journey home.
Is Damsel based on a true story?
No, Damsel is not inspired by a true story.
Where was Damsel filmed?
Filming took place in New Mexico.
What is the runtime for Damsel?
Damsel runs for 1 hour and 45 minutes.
What is the budget for Damsel?
Damsel has an estimated budget of $10 Million.
What are the critical reviews for Damsel?
Damsel has garnered mixed reviews from critics. While some have lauded its performances and its innovative take on Western cinema, others have taken aim at its violence and slow pace.
What is the audience score for Damsel?
Damsel earned a score of 70% on Rotten Tomatoes from its audience score.
What is the Rotten Tomatoes consensus for Damsel?
Damsel earned a 97% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes and has received wide critical acclaim, garnering praise from critics as an entertaining Western with strong performances by its main cast.
