Red Sonja’s popularity spans comic books, novels, and even Dungeons & Dragons. The character has never made a successful jump to film, however. The 1985 release starring Brigitte Nielsen was so bad that Arnold Schwarzenegger – whose credits include Junior and The Expendables 3 – has called it the worst film he has ever made. A 2010 adaptation starring Rose McGowan was derailed due to injuries to McGowan. Can the latest attempt starring Matilda Lutz break through?
Wisely, the film weaves Sonja’s origin into the plot itself. Red Sonja is constantly moving forward, using flashbacks to flesh out the titular character and her past. As things progress, it is easy to understand and get behind everything she does. That being said, the opening does feel a little forced. It is clear she is comfortable in the forest and is at home with nature, making her decision to attack a fort of poachers understandable. Still, it does feel like it was shoehorned in to advance the movie. This aspect of her character does not feel as important later on.
Lutz is great in the lead role. She brings confidence that makes the character work. Sonja shows some vulnerability and humor, but it is her tenacity and fearlessness that stand out. Whether it is trying to escape after being enslaved or attempting to take on a whole army in the finale, she is a complete badass. And when Red Sonja does take the time to showcase Sonja’s principles, Lutz makes it believable. It is all typical of the sword-and-sorcery genre, but it never feels watered down.
Red Sonja looks great. There are a number of excellent set pieces that will transport audiences to the Hyborian Age. The colors pop off the screen and there is some great creature design. There are also some great fight scenes. It is an all around fun movie that finally gives Sonja the adaptation she deserves.
Red Sonja releases in theaters for one night only on August 13.
