Damsel

Damsel is a comic western film from 2018, co-written and co-directed by Nathan and David Zellner who both also feature in the cast. The film foregrounds an ensemble of versatile actors including Robert Pattinson and Mia Wasikowska in lead roles, with seamlessly riveting performances which augment the nuanced storytelling that rolls out with multiple unforeseen twists.

Robert Pattinson plays Samuel Alabaster, a seemingly fortunate individual who embarks on a daring journey into the 19th-century frontier American West's rugged landscapes. His mission is to reunite with and propose marriage to his lover, Penelope, portrayed by Mia Wasikowska. Samuel, a man of modest wealth with the spirit of an epically romantic hero, carries along a miniature horse named Butterscotch as a wedding present for his beloved. The presence of the small horse as a picturesque and unexpected character in the story highlights the film's offbeat humor, a salient aspect that differentiates Damsel from typical Westerns.

Buoyant with hope, Samuel arrives in the boisterous town of Old Joy, hiring a drunken preacher, Parson Henry (played by co-director David Zellner) to ensure that everything is in place when he rescues his damsel in distress. Penelope, however, is revealed to be a far cry from the usual helpless 'damsel' archetype. Mia Wasikowska's spirited portrayal of a strong and independent woman serves as a fitting foil to the incessantly optimistic and somewhat bungling Samuel.

The storyline of Damsel takes several unexpected turns, revising the viewers’ preconceptions about the characters and the plot. This subversion of the traditional Western narrative, the movie explores various themes including love, heroism, and independence. It endeavours to deconstruct age-old stereotypes and reflects on the inherent contradictions of liberal pioneers of the American west, creating an amalgamation of irony, comedy and eyeball-grabbing imagery.

Adding another layer to its charm, Damsel provides a unique perspective on the American West, showcasing the beautiful scenes of forests, mountains, and rivers. The cinematography by Adam Stone brilliantly captures the rugged wilderness, assisting the narrative in depicting a harsh environment where survival is a trying task. The film boats of a meticulously designed period setting that is both aesthetically pleasing and authentically immersive, furthering the audience's feeling of being transported back in time.

Pattinson, known primarily as the brooding vampire Edward Cullen in the Twilight series, displays a wide range of acting skills in his portrayal of Samuel. His character is funny, obtuse, and, at times, pitiful, showcasing Pattinson's versatility as a compelling leading man. Wasikowska, on the other hand, radiates strength and determination, rendering a performance that is the backbone of the narrative, countering the frequent depiction of women as helpless creatures needing rescue.

The Zellner Brothers’ direction stands out, as they blend an array of stylistic cues from classic Western genre codes in a modern context. Their infusion of humor and irony is abundant, challenging the norms with their innovative storytelling. The film also boasts an interesting soundtrack, arranged by The Octopus Project, providing an extra layer of enjoyment to each scene and elevating the film's overall ambiance.

Damsel is anything but your average Western film. It operates as a postmodern critique of the romanticized 'Old West' and challenges established Western film’s gender norms. It's a unique blend of black comedy, unexpected plot twists, and a strong feminist narrative, all set within the aesthetically captivating landscapes of the wild west. The star-studded cast, led by Robert Pattinson and Mia Wasikowska, with the Zellner brothers at the helm, brings this genre-crossing film to life in a highly entertaining and visually arresting manner.

In summary, Damsel is a unique, humorous, and thought-provoking western comedy that subverts conventions, sparkling with creativity and strong performances. With its remarkably picturesque settings, engrossing narrative, and diverse character dynamics, this genre-bending cinematic experience keeps audiences engaged until the last frame, pushing the boundaries of a traditional Western to craft something truly original.