Damsel (2024)

Another Netflix flick hits the screen, this time with a decent budget and a handful of promising ideas. But alas, once again, they miss the mark, leaving us with a predictable tale.

Now, I’ll be upfront—I’m not exactly Millie Bobby Brown’s biggest fan. But credit where it’s due, she nails her role in this one. However, my gripe lies elsewhere. Why enlist the writer of “Fast X” and “Wrath of the Titans,” and pair them with a director whose last flick was 13 years ago—and bombed?

Despite its shortcomings, “Damsel” does manage to offer some intrigue. The twist on the classic “Damsel in distress” trope injects a dose of fun, and there’s no denying the film’s visual appeal, especially during the action-packed sequences where Brown shines. But, alas, the predictability looms large, thanks to heavy-handed clues littered throughout.

Now, here’s a pet peeve of mine in movies: when characters chatter away to themselves, spelling out every detail because the writer and director doubt our ability to keep up. Sadly, “Damsel” falls into this trap more than most.

While Brown carries the weight of the film admirably, the supporting cast doesn’t quite measure up. Frankly, every time someone else graces the screen, I find myself wishing for a dragon to swoop in and save us from their lackluster performances. Poor Nick Robinson, post-“Love Simon,” we’re still waiting for him to dazzle us again. After this, I’m not holding my breath.

Netflix seems to be banking on Brown’s star power, from “Stranger Things” to “Enola Holmes,” and now this. And while their strategy may be working, pulling in millions of viewers, they could aim higher by investing in top-tier talent both in front of and behind the camera.

Now, I’m curious—what’s your favorite Millie Bobby Brown performance?