In Neil Burger’s adaptation of “The Marsh King’s Daughter,” the challenge of capturing the novel’s poetic language mirrors that of “Where the Crawdads Sing.” Despite strong performances by Ben Mendelsohn, Daisy Ridley, and Gil Birmingham, the film remains a mid-level thriller. Brooklynn Prince portrays Helena, raised in the secluded marshes of Michigan, shaped by her father’s unique teachings. The narrative takes an unexpected turn when a stranger disrupts their isolated life. Ridley, as adult Helena, unveils a life marked by secrecy, distanced from a traumatic past. However, as her father escapes from prison, the film’s pacing falters, becoming predictable. Despite Mendelsohn’s compelling portrayal, the lack of urgency undermines the thriller’s essence, preventing the adaptation from fully embracing the lyrical depth of its literary origin. Visit myflixer 2 for more!
