In a fantasy world where women are not allowed to read or write or do much of anything apart from serving as procreation vessels, a young bride named Cherry (Maika Monroe) who is looked down upon as she can’t seem to procure an heir for her husband Jerome (Amir El-Masry) gets the company of a charming visitor by the name of Manfred (Nicholas Galitzine) as said husband will be away from the castle for business. The men have privately arranged some sort of abhorrent scheme leading Manfred to try and woo Cherry before Jerome returns. Luckily, her gentle and loyal maid Hero (Emma Corrin) has caught on and cunningly attempts to thwart these less-than-honourable intentions.
The satirical universe created by Julia Jackman (or at least her vision of it as this is actually based on Isabel Greenberg’s graphic novel) is deliciously whimsical with an almost tacky aesthetic, but at the same time it’s wonderfully rich and well-realized. Jackman has a clear vision and defined sense of style making this film feel wholly unique and poetic. There are a couple of very funny shots with characters sliding into view from the side and also some hilarious editing like when Cherry makes a comment about their new guest and it cuts to said guest the following morning – this one got a great reaction from the BIFFF-crowd. You’ll see…
Apart from the playful tone and striking visuals, the film capitalizes on an array of highly amusing characters – from the leading trio down to the often-hilarious guards in the background. They are obviously peculiar and befitting to the world they inhabit, but you instantly get attached to them, the good as well as the wicked and everything in between. Great performances from this ensemble cast including the likes of Richard E. grant, Felicity Jones and Charli XCX. 100 Nights of Hero is delicate and elegant. It’s playful and quirky. Tender and sweet. But also, poignant and sharp. An enchanting fairy tale I will be glad to revisit.
