Red Sonja (1985) Review: A Fun and Entertaining Sword and Sorcery Adventure

Red Sonja (1985) is a sword and sorcery film that has become a cult classic over the years. Directed by Richard Fleischer and starring Brigitte Nielsen in the titular role, the film tells the story of a fearless warrior on a quest for revenge against the evil queen Gedren (Sandahl Bergman).

The film is a fun and entertaining romp that doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s a throwback to the classic sword and sorcery films of the 1980s, complete with cheesy special effects and over-the-top action sequences. But that’s part of its charm.

Brigitte Nielsen is perfect as Red Sonja, imbuing the character with a sense of toughness and vulnerability. She’s a formidable warrior, but she’s also haunted by her past and driven by a need for vengeance. Nielsen’s performance carries the film and makes it easy to root for Red Sonja.

Sandahl Bergman is also a standout as the villainous Gedren. She’s deliciously evil and chews the scenery with relish. Her scenes with Nielsen are some of the film’s highlights, as the two actresses play off each other well.

The film’s supporting cast is also noteworthy, with Ernie Reyes Jr. as the plucky sidekick and Paul L. Smith as the hulking brute. They provide some comic relief and add to the film’s sense of fun.

The film’s action sequences are well-staged and exciting. From the opening battle to the final showdown, the movie delivers plenty of swordplay and mayhem. The special effects may be dated, but they add to the film’s charm and give it a certain nostalgic appeal.

The film’s score, composed by Ennio Morricone, is also noteworthy. It’s a rousing and memorable score that complements the action on screen and helps to heighten the tension during the film’s many battles.

In conclusion, the film is a fun and entertaining sword and sorcery adventure that is sure to delight fans of the genre. It may not be the most serious or well-crafted film, but it has a certain charm and nostalgia that make it a beloved cult classic. Brigitte Nielsen’s performance as the titular character is a standout, and the film’s action sequences are exciting and well-staged. Overall, Red Sonja is a film that is worth watching for fans of the genre and anyone looking for a fun and lighthearted adventure.

Cast

• Brigitte Nielsen as Red Sonja
• Arnold Schwarzenegger as Lord Kalidor
• Sandahl Bergman as Queen Gedren of Berkubane
• Paul L. Smith as Falkon
• Ernie Reyes, Jr. as Prince Tarn
• Ronald Lacey as Ikol
• Pat Roach as Lord Brytag
• Terry Richards as Djart
• Janet Agren as Varna, Red Sonja’s sister
• Donna Osterbuhr as Kendra (High Priestess)
• Lara Naszinsky as Queen Gedren’s handmaid
• Hans Meyer as Red Sonja’s father
• Francesca Romana Coluzzi as Red Sonja’s mother
• Stefano Maria Mioni as Barlok (Red Sonja’s brother)
• Tutte Lemkow as Wizard
• Kiyoshi Yamasaki as Kyobo
• Tad Horino as Swordmaster
• Sven-Ole Thorsen as one of Lord Brytag’s bodyguards
• Erik Holmey as Lord Brytag’s bodyguard who battles Red Sonja before she kills him