Damsel

Elodie, along with her sister Floria, lives in a kingdom facing severe resource scarcity. When a marriage proposal arrives from the wealthy kingdom of Aurea, Elodie is hesitant but accepts for the sake of her people. Upon arrival, she and Floria are dazzled by the luxury of Queen Isabelle’s home, but Elodie’s stepmother, Lady Bayford, senses something amiss.

The plot thickens as Elodie discovers the marriage is a ploy by the royal family to fulfill a dark, ancestral debt. She is to be sacrificed to the dragon that the king encountered centuries ago. The film shifts from a fairy tale to a survival thriller as Elodie, using her wit and the resources at hand, including her wedding dress, fights for her life against the dragon.

Critics have praised the film for its empowering narrative and rich character development. The production design and costumes have been highlighted for their beauty, particularly in the wedding scene. While the film doesn’t offer a fresh take on the genre, it’s been described as an enjoyable watch with commendable visual effects.

“Damsel” stands out for its portrayal of strength and resilience in the face of adversity, resonating with audiences through its darkly beautiful exploration of a grim fairy tale.