Review of The Huntsman: Winter's War (2016) by Chris M — 22 Apr 2016

When you have Emily Blunt wasted pretty much playing a dark version of Elsa there wasn't much promise for Winter's War in the first place. It's not hard to tell that Winter's War is from the director of Maleficent either. Since you have Freya (Emily Blunt) turning bad due to a great loss and a broken heart; like Maleficent. Both movies didn't have a strong reason for existing.

A Huntsman prequel to a just decent Snow White movie was never necessary. With such a great cast I expected something attracted them to the movie other than money but I was wrong. There's nothing for any true Fantasy fan other than sadly the ones who liked Frozen.

Some Frozen fans might want to see it for a Elsa like snow queen. This one doesn't sing Let it Go though and is against anyone who believes in love. As she expresses more than once.

Blunt is one dimensional playing a one dimensional woman scorned who has to act broken and preach about how love sucks every time she is shown. Anyone could have played the part and she should have let someone else play the part...

Despite some good swordplay and costumes there's not much that kept my attention. Jessica Chestain and Charlize Theron aren't bad at least; as well as Nick Frost as a dwarf. Most of the acting otherwise was so eh that I even missed Kristen Stewart. Plus I rather see Liam Neeson kick ass than narrate a movie. Especially; not a very good one.

Winters War made me sad that a great fantasy like Willow was so under-appreciated in 1988. Since that movie offered plenty of fun, lively performances and adventure. I can't say this movie ever was fun or magical.

I can't say Winters War leads into Snow White and the Huntsman well even. Since you have the Huntsman battling the Evil Queen in this. Then acting like he just met her in Snow White and the Huntsman.