Red Sonja

druscilla_of_old 11/11/2026 7:30:10PM 8.4

**Way better than the 1985 version** Having just rewatched the Brigitte Nielsen 1985 version of this movie, I'm so aghast at the suggestion, made by quite a few online reviewers, that the 1985 version is better than this one that I had to write this short review to express my disagreement. I'm aghast at this suggestion because in nearly all respects, this version is an improvement of its '85 counterpart. This is in addition to the fact that this version is much more faithful to the comic on which both movies are based. From the script to the cinematography and special/visual effects, and from performances to thematic depth, this version stands out in many ways compared the '85 version. For instance, while this version, in some ways, maintains the "unpolished look and feel" and somewhat "stiff" line deliveries of the '85 one, it ditches all the unnecessary and cringe-worthy goofs and "comedy" of the same, such as the whole racist narrative arc with the supposedly "Asian" kid. It also adds elements to its narrative that elevate its cinematic value to a level that is much more than the disposable one-time-watch goofy action comedy movie that the '85 version is. A good example of this is its centralization of the role of Goddess theology in the narrative - movies that feature Goddesses in non-sexualized central roles are extremely rare - and its interrogation of the dangers of allowing knowledge to be monopolized by technocrats who are obsessed with domination and control. Furthermore, from a thematic standpoint, one cannot help but notice that the '85 version emphasized the rather sexist attitude that no matter how powerful a woman is, they will always still need a man in their lives. Through the cardboard villain Queen Gedren (played by Sandahl Bergman), it also promoted the homophobic idea that lesbian women are essentially greedy and evil. In contrast, this version grants Sonja agency by emphasizing her independence and self-sufficiency while also demonstrating the power of community and friendship in standing up against tyranny and oppression. And while it is strongly suggested that its villain, Draygan (Robert Sheehan), is gay, his evil actions are not tied to his sexual identity and are instead contextualized through the lens of his traumatic childhood. Thus, this version is thematically superior to the '85 version. Focusing on some technical aspects, the special/visual effects in this movie cannot even closely be compared to the '85 version's. This isn't to say that the latter's are bad, only that they are, by far, much less believable and entertaining than the former's. The fight scenes in this version are also much better choreographed than those in the '85 version. In short, unless you're a zealous fan of the '85 Red Sonja or an incel who believes that any story that genuinely centers women's stories and experiences is bad, you will find it hard to believe that the '85 version is better than this one. In any case, this version is a must-watch for all lovers of sword and sorcery fantasy action flicks. It is also essential to anyone looking for media that explore Goddess-centered religious belief systems, especially those doing so in positive ways that do not necessarily cater to the male gaze.

MovieGuys 8/21/2025 11:18:05PM 8.4

"Red Sonja" is an unpolished, sword and sorcery, romp. There's a discernible lack of care and polish, in this production. Its by no means in in the same class as earlier cinematic iterations, such as the film from 1985. The story is both predictable and underwhelming. Unsurprisingly, characterisations fare little better, being of the decidedly card board cut out, variety. Fight scenes, which populate much of this flick, feel like something thrown together, by a well funded group of fantasy larpers. Oddly enough, a portion of the acting is actually quite worthwhile, especially the villain of the piece played by the talented Robert Sheehan but really, that's about it. In summary, a basic sword and sorcery tale,that's mildly watchable but lacking in many respects. I personally feel the film from 1985, is vastly superior. Take a look at both and see if you don't agree with me.

Wuchak 4/26/2026 6:29:09PM 8.4

**_Good enough sword & sorcery flick featuring the comic book warrioress_** Red Sonja debuted in Roy Thomas’ Conan the Barbarian comic in 1973, inspired by Robert E. Howard’s Red Sonya of his short story “The Shadow of the Vulture,” which is set in the Ottoman Empire in the 1500s. Thomas just transferred her to REH’s fictional Hyborian Age. The 1985 movie with Brigitte Nielsen deviated from the character of the comics and was too kid-friendly, particularly the bits involving the spoiled Asian child, Prince Tarn, and his loyal rotund assistant, Falkon. Thankfully, this 2025 version ditches the goofiness for a serious S&S adventure and a better depiction of the heroine. Don’t get me wrong, Nielsen could’ve worked in the role, but her mullet was dreadful and her costume didn’t exactly reflect the comic version. In the comics, Red Sonja (supposedly) stands 5’11” and Nielsen exceeded that at 6’1” whereas Matilda Lutz in this movie stands 5’6½”. Yet this is made up for by better costuming and all-around depiction. Speaking of which, her infamous scale mail bikini is poked fun at in a clever way with Sonja eventually donning a slightly fuller version of the getup. Lutz may not be as voluptuous as some guys prefer, but she has her appeal and certainly isn’t unattractive. Her lithe body actually fits the athletic requirements of the character. Plus, if you compare certain shots of her in the film with frames of the old comics by John Buscema, she looks like Red Sonja to me. The first half of the story pretty much follows the first half of the 1982 version of “Conan the Barbarian” whereas the overall tone is similar to the 2011 rendition of “Conan,” the one with Jason Momoa. The gladiatorial sequences are grander than in the 1982 film and more akin to the movie “Gladiator.” Being a sword & sorcery flick, there are fantasy elements, such as a cyclops, but they’re not overdone. Fans of sword & sandal flicks in general should appreciate the movie, including flicks like “Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.” The first half is very good as it concentrates on fleshing out the characters and throws in some unique stuff, but the second half sort of devolves into run-of-the-mill material. The producers should’ve studied the 1982 version of “Conan the Barbarian” to be sure to include creative and unforgettable bits. It runs 1h 50m and was shot in Aug 2022 at Sofia, Bulgaria. GRADE: B-