114 minutes, Action/Adventure, M

THE HUNTSMAN: WINTER’S WAR is both a prequel and a sequel to 2012’s SNOW WHITE AND THE HUNTSMAN, which as you know, starred THE TWILIGHT SAGA’S Kristen Stewart as Snow White. You may also know of the scandal that rocked the SNOW WHITE production, which has reportedly led to the absence of Stewart and her character appearing here. After viewing the second chapter of the HUNTSMAN franchise, it is quite evident the scriptwriters have gone to great lengths in avoiding the necessary casting of Snow White! The film is partially revolves around her kingdom and she is mentioned several times, yet she is eluded, time and time again! This prequel concentrates more on the journey of The Huntsman (Chris Hemsworth), who together with his lover Sara (Jessica Chastain), plots to bring down two evil Queen sisters – Freya and Ravenna (Emily Blunt and Charlize Theron), who are rising in power and threaten to take control over all the kingdoms.

If you have not seen 2012’s SNOW WHITE AND THE HUNTSMAN, and want to, then do not read on, for the following contains spoilers to the first film.

Now, if you’re thinking to yourself “Wait a sec, didn’t Queen Ravenna die in the first film!?”, you are absolutely right, she did! Two points – 1) remember the word prequel and 2) do not ever question the reason (even though it’s wishy-washy) to invite the magnifique Charlize Theron into any film! For the sheer presence of such a talented, well-liked cast alone is what solely endorses THE HUNTSMAN: WINTER’S WAR to achieve a pass mark, just. Everything else, in every filmmaking practice possible, hovers around the average mark throughout. Each plot development can be seen coming from a mile away. The simple structure in which first-time director Cedric Nicolas-Troyan has opted to produce this action/adventure keeps the order and flow very straightforward. That’s all well and good when you’re aiming for a pre-teen audience and below, however THE HUNTSMAN: WINTER’S WAR is unexciting and sometimes sluggish for the age demographic in which it is targeted for.

3 out of 5

THE HUNTSMAN: WINTER’S WAR – Film Trailer

Footnote to Parents
Classified M for fantasy action violence and also contains some sensuality where very brief, partial nudity can be seen.

Moviedoc wishes to thank Universal Pictures and Hoyts Melbourne Central for the invitation to the preview screening of THE HUNTSMAN: WINTER’S WAR.

Review by Moviedoc
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