“Millie Bobby Brown Takes the Lead in ‘Damsel,’ “Exclusive Glimpse, Rescuing Herself”
“Director Juan Carlos Fresnadillo declares, ‘We’re literally turning the fairy tale upside down.'”
Millie Bobby Brown, known for her roles battling monsters in Stranger Things and solving mysteries in Enola Holmes, takes on a fresh challenge in her latest film, “Damsel” (streaming on Netflix from March 8).
This unconventional fairy tale, written by Dan Mazeau and directed by Juan Carlos Fresnadillo, presents a unique twist on the classic genre. Brown plays Elodie, a princess facing a perilous situation when her supposed Prince Charming attempts to sacrifice her to a dragon.
In a departure from traditional fairy tales, “Damsel” unfolds as Elodie, the dutiful maiden, is chosen to marry a charming prince. However, her wedding takes a dark turn as the royal family casts her into a cave to appease the resident dragon, turning Elodie into the latest victim in a series of sacrificed women. The film blends elements of fantasy epic and brutal action-thriller as Elodie fights to break free from her dire predicament.
Director Juan Carlos Fresnadillo explains, “This princess has to manage a very difficult situation with no help at all.” He emphasizes the departure from traditional fairy tale narratives, noting that in cinematic history, princesses are typically aided by someone—a prince, father, or king. However, in “Damsel,” written by Dan Mazeau, the story takes a contemporary turn, portraying a woman’s survival without external assistance.
At 19, Millie Bobby Brown, known for her encounters with scaly creatures in films like Godzilla: King of the Monsters, showcases her action skills in “Damsel.” The film captures Brown’s character, Elodie, navigating challenges such as scaling cliffs, wielding swords, and confronting a formidable dragon.
Fresnadillo commends Brown’s performance, describing it as an evolution in her career roles. He highlights the character’s journey from a dutiful girl following her family’s expectations to a strong and independent woman. While initially adhering to the destiny set by her family and kingdom, Elodie undergoes growth and transformation, and Brown brings this evolution to life in an impressive manner.
The film boasts a star-studded cast, with Nick Robinson portraying Elodie’s prince-to-be, Angela Bassett as her stepmother, and Robin Wright as her future mother-in-law. Particularly, Wright, known for her role in the 1987 classic The Princess Bride, brings her regal presence to a unique queen character, promising a departure from conventional fairy tale depictions. Director Juan Carlos Fresnadillo expresses the need for a strong actress like Wright to portray a complex and rich villain, adding a layer of depth to the narrative.
Fresnadillo envisions “Damsel” as a “modern dark fairy tale” that challenges the conventions of traditional stories by Hans Christian Andersen or the Brothers Grimm. With a mischievous twinkle in his eye, the director hints at unconventional elements, even in the portrayal of Elodie’s fire-breathing adversary.
“We’re literally turning the fairy tale upside down,” Fresnadillo shares with a grin, alluding to the film’s unique approach in designing a dragon that defies expectations.
“Damsel” is set to premiere on Netflix on March 8 next year.
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