Origin story is written by Tasha Huo, directed by M. J. Bassett and not a remake of 1985 film.
It's worth remembering that Bassett previously helmed Solomon Kane (2009), and although initially panned, has gained a cult following.
Matilda Lutz - Sonja
Robert Sheehan - Emperor Draygan
Wallis Day - Annisia
Luca Pasqualino - Osin The Untouched
Michael Bisping - Hawk
Martyn Ford - General Karlak
Tihomir Vinchev - King Anzus
Summary
In the Hyborian Age exists the land of Hyrkania, where people live in peace and harmony. All that goes to shit though, when barbarian king Anzus attacks village, leaving a trail of destruction in his wake.
Years later, a now adult Sonja lives in the forest with her horse Vihur and worships tree deity Ashera.
When she witnesses mercenaries butchering a herd of rhino-esque beasts called Fantatherium for their horns, Sonja discovers the men are also collecting exotic creatures to honour Emperor Draygan.
Other key figures are monkey humanoid General Karlak and Empress-to-be Lady Annisia, who hears voices of the people she murdered and drinks potions to treat schizophrenia.
Draygan has the first part of the Book of Secrets, but requires the second half to build a new army.
After escaping capture, Sonja leads a rebellion against Draygan.
Kill the Red Devil
Bringing various aspects from the Dynamite Comics story arcs to life, such as villains and Sonja's face paint deserves praise, and unlike Brigette Nielsen, Lutz actually wears iconic white chainmail bikini.
But holy shit, rubbish action, cheap costumes, laughable CG and bizarre acting ensures charmless B-movie was fucking terrible.
Horrendous dialogue slices so much cringing cheese, all that's missing is a mouldy slice of bread.
Prince Osin earned his nickname because no-one has ever touched him with a blade.
HA HA HA!
Near the beginning, Sonja threatens to swap Vihur for a pony.
WHAT?
Ignoring fantasy setting, film essentially rips off Gladiator (2000) and Braveheart (1995).
Draygan thinks he's Commodus and Sonja becomes William Wallace.
I suppose because of monsters, you could also include Gladiator II.
The final nail in the coffin is removing Sonja's rape and revenge motive, making character too chatty and lighthearted.
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