Long-Awaited 80s Action Fantasy Reboot Gets Low Rotten Tomatoes Score

After nearly 40 years of false starts and director changes, the long-awaited Red Sonja reboot finally slashed its way into theaters today – only to meet sharply divided critical reception. The fantasy epic starring Matilda Lutz currently holds a 56% Rotten Tomatoes score, reflecting the tumultuous journey of a project that cycled through five directors including Robert Rodriguez and Bryan Singer before landing with M.J. Bassett.

The film’s rocky path seems mirrored in its reviews. Mary Kassel of Screen Rant delivered a brutal assessment: “Red Sonja attempts to revive its franchise, but it fails to justify itself, tell a compelling story, or make us care about the characters.” Phil Walsh from Geek Vibes Nation was equally harsh, describing the film as “sleepwalking through the valley… leaving us begging to be put out of misery.”

The Rocky Road to Hyborian Screen Revival

This reboot represents Hollywood’s third attempt to adapt Robert E. Howard’s fiery-haired warrior since the 1985 Brigitte Nielsen version. Development spanned decades with attached directors including Simon West (Con Air) and Transparent creator Joey Soloway. Bassett ultimately took the reins with a script by Tasha Huo (Tomb Raider anime). The production faced skepticism from the start, given the project’s cursed history and modest budget constraints.

While critics universally note the film’s technical limitations, some found redeeming qualities. The Hollywood Reporter’s Aaron Peterson acknowledged budgetary shortcomings but praised Lutz’s performance: “She wears the chainmail with honor and enough devotion that we are entertained for the majority of this revival.” Supporting players like Wallis Day (Batwoman) and Robert Sheehan (Umbrella Academy) also received positive mentions despite the uneven material.

Visuals and Violence: Where the Film Lands

Matilda Lutz embodies the iconic swordswoman in M.J. Bassett’s vision (Credit: Samuel Goldwyn Films)

The film charts an original story not directly adapted from comics: Sonja is captured and forced to fight in gladiatorial pits before rallying rebels against tyrant Dragan (Martyn Ford) and his warrior bride Dark Annisia (Wallis Day). Production design received unexpected praise amid criticism of CGI elements. Brian Eggert (Deep Focus Reviews) noted “delightful B-movie energy that boosts inferior VFX with assured production design and makeup effects.”

Keith Garlington offered one of the film’s strongest endorsements: “Bassett unfolds an immersive story accented by beautiful landscapes, brutal violence, and a rousing heroine.” However, Justin Kim (Loud and Clear Reviews) countered that the result felt “neither particularly faithful nor entertaining in a general sense,” reflecting the polarized consensus.

After decades trapped in development hell, this bloody reimagining delivers exactly what its journey predicted: a flawed but passionate interpretation that will satisfy genre loyalists while leaving critics divided. For better or worse, Red Sonja has reclaimed her cinematic throne – catch her conquest in theaters now or await the digital release August 29.

Must Know

What’s the Rotten Tomatoes score for the new Red Sonja?

The reboot currently holds a 56% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes based on early reviews. Reception remains sharply divided, with some praising its B-movie energy and lead performance while others criticize its storytelling and character development.

Is this Red Sonja a remake of the 1985 film?

No. Director M.J. Bassett has created a new interpretation of Robert E. Howard’s comic character rather than remaking the Brigitte Nielsen version. The plot follows an original story about Sonja’s enslavement and rebellion against a tyrannical regime.

Who plays Red Sonja in the reboot?

Italian actress Matilda Lutz, known for the thriller Revenge (2017), portrays the iconic swordswoman. Supporting cast includes Wallis Day as antagonist Dark Annisia, Robert Sheehan, and MMA fighter Michael Bisping.

When will Red Sonja stream digitally?

Samuel Goldwyn Films has scheduled the digital release for August 29, 2025 – just two weeks after its theatrical debut. The surprisingly quick turnaround suggests a hybrid release strategy for the fantasy epic.

How does this compare to the 1985 Red Sonja?

Early reviews indicate this version features more intense violence and darker themes than the Arnold Schwarzenegger-co-starring original. At 110 minutes, it’s also 20 minutes longer than the 1985 film, allowing expanded worldbuilding.

Did the original Red Sonja actress approve this reboot?

Brigitte Nielsen hasn’t publicly commented on this specific film, though she’s previously expressed support for new interpretations. Nielsen attended the 2022 Red Sonja comic panel at San Diego Comic-Con, showing ongoing affection for the character.