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Pretty Lethal’ Draws Mixed SXSW Reviews for Inventive Ballet Combat Ahead of Prime Video Release

87North’s action pedigree shapes expectations for the film’s fight design.

Overview

  • The film premiered at SXSW, where critics published broadly split reactions that coalesced around clear strengths and weaknesses.
  • Reviewers praise the choreography that turns ballet technique into visceral combat, with pointe shoes and synchronized movement repurposed as weapons.
  • Maddie Ziegler’s performance as the troupe’s tough standout and Uma Thurman’s turn as a formidable innkeeper are frequent highlights.
  • Many critiques target a thin script, sketchy character work, uneven pacing, and a derivative, John Wick‑style visual palette.
  • Directed by Vicky Jewson and written by Kate Freund, the 87North‑backed title streams globally on Prime Video via Amazon MGM on March 25.