Film Analysis: The Riot-Grrrl Essence of the Fantasy Odyssey ‘Nimona’

Center stage in ‘Nimona’ are a formidable, metamorphic teenage girl and a discredited squire, implicated in the murder of a cherished queen. This effervescent, irreverent animated journey unfolds in a futuristic fantastical realm.

This universe is bound by ancient codes and a crippling xenophobia, even by the recent standards of Netflix animations, as showcased in “The Sea Beast.” However, ‘Nimona’ offers a fresh and thrilling guise, complete with a raucously enjoyable soundtrack featuring artists like Metric, Dope Saint Jude, and Judas Priest. It boasts unabashed LGBTQ+ narratives, charismatic leading voice performances by Chloë Grace Moretz and Riz Ahmed, and a memorable side character named Ambrosius Goldenloin. Goldenloin, characterized by blonde swept-back hair, is brought to life by the voice of Eugene Lee Yang, famous from The Try Guys.

The tumultuous journey of bringing ‘Nimona’ to the screen could indeed be a compelling film in its own right. Originating from ND Stevenson’s popular graphic novel, the project commenced development in 2015 with Blue Sky Studios, eventually transitioning to Disney in 2019 through the Fox acquisition. The project withstood major transitions and leadership changes, and in 2021, with the film purportedly 75% completed, Disney declared the closure of Blue Sky Studios, with ‘Nimona’ facing indefinite postponement. Besides pandemic-induced economic strain, Business Insider stated Disney leadership had qualms over a same-sex kiss scene. Eventually, Annapurna and Netflix intervened, installing new directors (Nick Bruno, Troy Quane), who carried ‘Nimona’ over the finish line.

Moretz lends her voice to Nimona, an anarchic firebrand who, witnessing an outcast’s terrifying disgrace, contemplates partnering with him. The outcast is Ballister Boldheart (Ahmed), a street kid who aspired to knighthood, a title typically held by individuals of a specific societal class or descendants of a legendary warrior named Gloreth, who saved the kingdom from a monster a millennium ago. Against overwhelming odds and biases, he advanced through the ranks, nearly achieving his goal.

During the grand “Night to Knight Knights” spectacle, a Super Bowl halftime show meets “Blade Runner”/”Hunger Games” type of event, public opinion remains skeptical of Ballister. Accusations that he’s unworthy and incapable of safeguarding them abound. His sole supporters are his boyfriend, Ambrosius Goldenloin, and the queen. Unfortunately, the ceremony goes awry when the sword bestowed upon him slays the queen, his most public supporter, before everyone. Instantly, he’s branded a queen killer.

Boldheart is hesitant to align with Nimona as he seeks to vindicate himself and perceives her as an unlikely route back into society. However, her abilities, such as shapeshifting into any being or object, and defeating a dozen men single-handedly, are compelling. Moreover, she provides a refreshing contrast to the narrow-minded colleagues and frosty authorities at the Institute. It’s worth mentioning that Moretz excellently infuses Nimona with authenticity and punk vibrancy. The plot offers unexpected twists and turns best left for the audience to discover firsthand.

While the release coincides with Pride, it’s worth noting that LGBTQ+ rights are once again facing challenges nationwide. The film may not greatly advance the portrayal of same-sex relationships beyond recent animated attempts, but it constitutes another incremental stride towards progress, especially when the film is enjoyable as well.

Netflix may not be the genesis of ‘Nimona,’ but it emerges victorious by ensuring its final release.

‘Nimona,’ debuting in select theaters this Friday and streaming on Netflix from June 30, is rated PG by the Motion Picture Association for “violence/action, rude humor, thematic elements, and some language.” Its running time is 101 minutes and it receives three out of four stars.

The Motion Picture Association defines PG as: Parental guidance suggested.

For more, follow AP Film Writer Lindsey Bahr on Twitter: www.twitter.com/ldbahr.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about ‘Nimona’ Review

More about ‘Nimona’ Review

• Chloë Grace Moretz
• Riz Ahmed
• Eugene Lee Yang
• Netflix Original Animation
• LGBTQ+ Representation in Media
• Motion Picture Association Rating System