Damsel (2023) delivers a fresh twist on the classic fairy tale formula, directed by Juan Carlos Fresnadillo and starring Millie Bobby Brown as Elodie, a young woman thrust into a perilous fate she never anticipated. Set in a world where princesses are typically rescued, Damsel flips the script, putting its protagonist in the role of both captive and savior in a brutal test of survival and resilience.

The story begins with Elodie, a humble yet determined girl, chosen by a royal family to wed Prince Henry and bring peace between two kingdoms. Though initially thrilled at the chance to live a life of luxury, her dreams are shattered when she discovers that the marriage is a ruse. Elodie is meant to be sacrificed to a deadly dragon that the kingdom has been feeding maidens to for generations, a ritual that keeps the realm safe from the beast’s wrath. Abandoned in a dragon’s lair, she must fend for herself and find her own way to survive.

Damsel distinguishes itself with intense action sequences and a strong, layered character arc for Elodie, who transforms from a naive young woman into a fierce, self-reliant warrior. Millie Bobby Brown’s performance brings vulnerability and strength to the character, making her journey of survival both harrowing and inspiring. Instead of waiting to be saved, Elodie uses her wits and courage to fight back, turning her captivity into a gripping story of empowerment.

Visually, the film boasts a dark, enchanted aesthetic, with striking scenes of misty forests, ancient castles, and the dragon’s foreboding lair. The dragon itself is a terrifying presence, a creature both awe-inspiring and deadly, with each encounter heightening the film’s tension as Elodie faces the beast and the treacherous terrain of her surroundings.

Beyond the action, Damsel also offers a thoughtful exploration of agency and breaking free from societal expectations. By challenging the trope of the “damsel in distress,” the film showcases a heroine who defies convention, underscoring that bravery isn’t confined to knights in armor.

Damsel (2023) is a thrilling adventure and a modern reimagining of the classic fairy tale. With intense action, a powerful storyline, and Millie Bobby Brown’s standout performance, the film delivers both heart-pounding moments and a resonant message of self-empowerment and courage in the face of impossible odds.