Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves — Review
Paramount Pictures' "Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves" brings the iconic tabletop game to life on the big screen. Directors John Francis Daley and Jonathan Goldstein deliver a different take on high fantasy, showing that it can be both light-hearted and thrilling.
While I have seen the first “Dungeons & Dragons” (2000) movie, I approached “Honor Among Thieves” without prior gameplay experience. Luckily, you don't have to know the game to enjoy the film, so everyone is welcome.
In the cell of a frost-entombed arctic prison Revel's End, the viewers are introduced to the charismatic bard, Edgin Darvis (Chris Pine), and Holga Kilgore (Michelle Rodriguez), a tough yet nurturing barbarian. These two friends are incarcerated for “grand larceny and skullduggery”. Upon escape, the pair sets out to rescue Edgin’s daughter, Kira (Chloe Coleman), from Forge Fitzwilliam (Hugh Grant), a former accomplice who has instilled himself as the Lord of Neverwinter. Edgin and Holga are joined by the not-too-talented half-elf sorcerer Simon Aumar (Justice Smith), the cynical druid Doric (Sofia Lillis), and the swaggering paladin Xenk Yendar (Regé-Jean Page).
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Cohesive visuals but incoherent storytelling
“Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves” diverges from the dark seriousness of its predecessors “Dungeons & Dragons” (2000), “Dungeons & Dragons: Wrath of the Dragon God” (2005), and “Dungeons & Dragons 3: The Book of Vile Darkness” (2012). Instead, directors Jonathan M. Goldstein and John Francis Daley take a more light-hearted approach, giving us a whimsical fantasy-heist tale.
Regrettably, the directors prioritize fun and effects over storytelling, resulting in a predictable narrative. The plot lacks depth and feels rushed, often relying on convenient coincidences. Moreover, the film occasionally leans too heavily on dorky comedy, and some jokes come across as contrived and pretentious.
The directors’ emphasis on visual effects shines through in the film, with solid to well-done execution. The film's aesthetic is reminiscent of classic sword and sorcery films, with detailed costumes, intricate prosthetic makeup, and the use of animatronics. Most of the time, the CGI flawlessly blends with the real world, adding to the overall experience.
Stellar cast brings characters to life
The casting choices contribute to the film's appeal. Despite occasional exaggerated expressions, the overall acting quality is commendable. Chris Pine plays the role of Edgin with suave charm, portraying the slick and charming thief convincingly. Michelle Rodriguez showcases her impressive action skills as Holga Kilgore, the group's muscle, who prefers to resolve conflicts with her fists or axe. Their on-screen chemistry adds depth to their platonic relationship. Hugh Grant portrays Forge Fitzwilliam with his signature “bumbling Englishman” persona routinely, though Daisy Head's portrayal of the villainous Red Wizard Sofina adds an element of seriousness to the narrative.
However, it is Sophia Lillis as Doric who steals the spotlight with her portrayal of the cynical but charming druid. Doric's background in the Emerald Enclave and her shape-shifting abilities make her a fascinating character to explore more in future standalone tales within the “Dungeons & Dragons” universe.
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A light-hearted fantasy romp
In its quest to deliver a fantasy comedy with action, the film entertains its audience. While it follows a familiar heist movie formula, the medieval-inspired backdrop adds a charming twist. However, the movie fails to fully explore its characters. Additionally, the storyline follows predictable beats and lacks surprises or depth. They tried to cover too many subplots in such a short time, so the characters and story didn't get enough attention.
"Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves" may not be perfect, but it's a fun way to escape into a world full of adventure and magic. When you're looking for a light-hearted film for movie night with friends or family, this film delivers a humorous journey that's sure to entertain fantasy enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.
