There’s a certain kind of movie that grabs your attention instantly, with a slick concept, sharp visuals, and just enough chaos to keep you hooked. ‘Pretty Lethal’ is exactly that kind of film, at least on the surface.
Combining the beauty of ballet with the spirit of a survival thriller, the movie tells the story of a troupe of young dancers whose European tour turns into something much more sinister. It is an idea that sells itself. And for a while, it works. The action is fast, the stakes are obvious, and the setting, remote, creepy, and isolating, does much of the heavy lifting. However, when the adrenaline wears off, you begin to realize what is missing.
‘Pretty Lethal’ Dances Around Greatness Without Reaching It
‘Pretty Lethal’ does not take long to put its characters in harm’s way, at a little less than 90 minutes. The thing is, it may be too much of a rush.
We are presented with a group of ballerinas whose tensions are already simmering under the surface. It is competition, insecurity, and unspoken resentment. It is interesting, and it is also hardly explored.
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The story takes a sharp turn into the main conflict before those dynamics can fully take hold. That makes characters more of sketches than individuals. You know their functions in the group, but not necessarily their emotional richness.
There are flashes of something better. Some of the scenes allude to more intimate relationships and internal conflicts, particularly when the group is made to depend on one another. However, those are only glimpses of a more abundant narrative that does not entirely develop.
Action With Flair, But Not Always Precision
The area where the film attempts to shine is in its action. It has the influences of movies like ‘John Wick’, and one would anticipate some crisp, memorable fight choreography, and to its credit, ‘Pretty Lethal‘ does attempt to do something different.
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The concept of combining ballet with combat is truly interesting. And in some sequences it works. Some of the fights have a fluidity to them that is unique, almost poetic in motion. However, it’s inconsistent. Some scenes are not as precise as they should be, hits that are not quite timed.
Rather than being a sophisticated dance of violence, the action is sometimes a bit crass. With that said, the cast does add energy to their roles. ‘Pretty Lethal’ is not a failure; it is a movie that seems to have been left one step short of being something great.
It has a good idea behind it, and there is enough style to make you watch. However, unless it is done with more character development and refined execution, it never really reaches the emotional or cinematic heights it strives to achieve. Still, if you want something quick, different, and a bit experimental, it may be worth your time.
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