IR Film Review: DAMSEL [Netflix]
The essence of a fantasy and, by expansion, a damsel is an interesting concept of lore in today's society. The crux of "Damsel" from Netflix is wanting the romance but understanding the individuality needed. Millie Bobbie Brown, as a character, persona and performer, is bringing an interesting balance to the table in being able to bridge girlishness but with a sense of power without losing femininity as a matter of course. "Damsel" knows this inherently. As with the "Enola" films, she understands the power of romance and play actings while there also needs a sense of controlled destiny and perspective from her character (as well as others' perception). It also helps to have some good actors around you, even if some of the story is pulled from elsewhere with its own twist.
Ray Winstone (recently passed) did an immense amount of work in the year before his death with "Ahsoka", this and "The Gentlemen", all with different elements (though this is an addendum to his previous "Beowolf"). His basis of protection of his people through a slight of his daughter (redemption included) rings correctly. Robin Wright of course has a play on her Buttercup role but, like Angela Basset as Millie's stepmother in the film, there is not as much for them to do except really as a plot devive. This is Millie's performance and film through and through and she is game but at many times, she looks like she is almost trying too hard, while elsewhere, it looks organic.
The plot details, like a Rapunzel story are effective, and the plot doesn't sugarcoat the deaths to make them pliable. There are stakes but of course one can see the inherent aspect of "The Desolation of Smaug" in its design. Also there is a "Mother Of Dragons" concept (Brown likely is a fan of "Game Of Thrones") but that series is now almost a generation removed so this character can be one of the steaming generations's new heroines. Brown understands this in the films she makes and Netflix is smart to work with and back her on these franchises,especially with their flagship "Stranger Things" ending. One shot right at the end solidifies this. Brown's Elodie also says right at the beginning that "this is not your usual Damsel story"..and it of course is all the better for it. It is about standing ground, knowing your worth and protecting what you believe in, all of this with stunts, swordplay, wedding dresses and dragons flying around. B+
By Tim Wassberg
