Red Sonja - How Is This Movie Real?

Overview

This episode dives into the chaotic production history, baffling creative choices, and ultimate failure of the 2025 film Red Sonja. The host critiques its plot, performances, visuals, and thematic execution, while reflecting on its broader implications for modern filmmaking trends.

Notable Quotes

- Red Sonia feels like some weird time capsule dug up from 2018 when the whole girl boss who just needs to realize her inner potential trope was in full swing. – The Critical Drinker, on the outdated messaging of the film.

- You truly can't please everyone, but Red Sonia was one of those unlucky movies that managed to please absolutely no one. – The Critical Drinker, summarizing the film's reception.

- Seriously, how the [__] did this guy rise to become an emperor? Who would even follow him and why? – The Critical Drinker, questioning the villain's credibility.

🎬 The Tortured Production History

- The film endured years of failed attempts, with a revolving door of directors, writers, and actors, including Robert Rodriguez, Rose McGowan, and Amber Heard.

- After finally being shot in Bulgaria in 2022, it languished for three years before its release in 2025, signaling potential issues with the final product.

📖 A Nonsensical Plot

- The story begins with Sonia’s idyllic life disrupted by an unexplained attack, followed by a 20-year time skip that leaves major plot points unresolved.

- Sonia transitions from forest hermit to gladiator champion despite no prior training, culminating in battles against plastic-armored soldiers and a mind-controlled monster.

- The villain’s motivation—completing a book despite already conquering the world—is described as confusing and unnecessary.

🎭 Performances and Characterization

- Lead actress Matilda Lux is praised for her physical preparation but criticized for being misled about the film’s tone and quality.

- Supporting characters, including gladiators and the villain, are described as unconvincing, with performances ranging from apathetic to amateurish.

- Sonia’s portrayal as a girl boss archetype feels outdated and fails to resonate with modern audiences.

🎨 Visuals and Production Design

- The CGI is labeled abominable, with costumes resembling props from a medieval-themed restaurant.

- Fight choreography is unrealistic, with Sonia defeating armored men while wearing impractical outfits.

- The film’s serious tone clashes with its absurd visuals, making it unintentionally comedic.

📉 Broader Implications for Filmmaking

- The host critiques Hollywood’s tendency to prioritize shallow, preachy narratives over coherent storytelling and character development.

- Red Sonja is seen as emblematic of a bygone era of forced empowerment tropes, which audiences have grown weary of.

- The film’s failure to appeal to any demographic highlights the risks of trying to cater to conflicting agendas.