With the number of years it took for thissword and sorceryspin-off to finally hit large screens, one would have expected a noteworthy debut that would make a lasting impression on both fans and critics. Sadly, that’s not the case, at least according to critics who have delivered theirverdict on Rotten Tomatoes. Before divulging more details, the spin-off in question is the 2025Red Sonja, which premiered in Russia on July 31 and received a limited theatrical release in the US on August 13 by Samuel Goldwyn Films.
As of this writing,Red Sonjahas earned a disappointing 56% critics' ratingon the review aggregator website, based on 50 reviews. The audience, on the other hand, seems to have a different opinion from critics about the film, as reflected in its 69% Popcornmeter score. Even so, most of the commentary from both parties points totheConan the Barbarianspin-off’s unevenness, includingJeff Ewing’s review for Collider, which describes it as “an inconsistent sword-and-sandal epic, but one that lands some major notes.” The review also reads:
“The film overcomes a promising but inconsistent start, building to a solid back half with strong combat and performances, anchored by a boldMatilda Lutzand an impressiveRobert Sheehan.”
Directed byM. J. Bassettand written byTasha Huo, theRed Sonjareboot is inspired byRobert E. Howard’s characters, as adapted byRoy Thomas. The movie sees the title character asa solo protagonist who must battle her way through the blood-soaked pitsof a tyrant’s empire while also rallying an army of outcasts to reclaim her freedom and take down Dragan and his ruthless bride, Dark Annisia.Matilda Anna Ingrid Lutzleads in the title role with the fantasy pic also starringWallis Day, Robert Sheehan,Michael Bisping,MartynFord,Eliza Matengu,Rhona Mitra, andVeronica Ferres.
‘Red Sonja’ Was in Development for Too Long
Before the newRed Sonja, there wasa 1985 adaptation starring Brigitte Nielsen, which was a critical and commercial flop. Despite the failure, a sequel was said to be in development in the late 2000s that was ultimately scrapped until February 2010, when aSimon West-directedRed Sonjawas announced. As the years went by,more changes were made to the rebootin terms of director, producer, and scribe roles. In February 2021, Huo was hired to pen the script, joiningJoey Soloway, who previously signed on to write, direct, and produce in 2019. Bassett then came on board to direct in 2022 after Soloway left. Furthermore,Hannah John-Kamenwas initially cast in the titular role but was ultimately replaced by Lutz.
Red Sonjais playing in theaters. Stay tuned to Collider for more information.
