Warning! Spoilers aplenty! Consider thyself warned.

Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves has arrived! And what a fun ride it is.

Is this movie Dark Fantasy??? Not really, let’s be honest. It’s funny and fun and while it does have morally grey characters and magic, it is missing the morbid twist we love in our Dark Fantasy material.

For its general lack of darkness and inexcusable neglect of Red Wizard, Sovina… we give Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves a mere four of five Magic Potions.

A Fantastical (and Sometimes Gritty) Setting

The film’s fantastical – ABSOLUTELY STUNNING – setting serves as a perfect backdrop for the story, which centers around Edgin Darvis, once a member of the Harpers, an order of peacekeepers. We meet Edgin in a stunning skyscraper prison set upon the freezing tundra.

The charming bard shares a cell with his bestie Holga, who immediately beats a monster’s ass, showing us that she’ll be the one bringing the brawn.

Edgin’s Backstory: Good Guy Gone Bad

After his wife’s murder by disciples of a Red Wizard, Edgin turns to a life of crime alongside barbarian Holga Kilgore, rogue Forge Fitzwilliam, amateur sorcerer Simon Aumar, and the enigmatic Red Wizard Sofina. 

Their attempt to steal the “Tablet of Reawakening” from a Harper stronghold to resurrect Edgin’s wife results in Edgin and Holga’s capture, while their treacherous accomplices escape.

Complex Characters Defying Fantasy Archetypes

Edgin and Holga break out of Revel’s End arctic prison and embark on a mission to reclaim the tablet, prove their innocence and reunite Edgin’s family. 

Along the way, they encounter the tiefling druid Doric and the mysterious paladin Xenk Yandar, who play crucial roles in their quest. The film’s complex, morally ambiguous characters defy traditional fantasy archetypes, resulting in a dark, captivating narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

Masterful Blend of Tentpole Cinema Spectacular and Classic D&D

One of the most striking aspects of Honor Among Thieves is its masterful blend of Hollywood razzle-dazzle cinema and classic Dungeons & Dragons elements. 

From the diverse races inhabiting the world (hello, Mama Cat) and magical items to the rich history and mythology of the world, fans of the beloved tabletop game will find plenty to love in this film. 

Iconic D&D creatures such as the pudgy red dragon Themberchaud (we’re obsessed) and the fearsome assassins from Thay come to life on the screen, adding depth and excitement to the story.

Adrenaline-Pumping Action and Magic

The action scenes in Honor Among Thieves are expertly choreographed and seamlessly incorporate the use of magic, further immersing viewers in the dark, fantastical world. 

Each encounter showcases the true dangers and consequences of living in a realm filled with powerful magic and deadly foes, making for an adrenaline-pumping, edge-of-your-seat experience. (That underworld scene to retrieve the helmet, featuring the pudgy dragon!!!)

Themes of Betrayal, Moral Ambiguity, and Redemption

The film’s exploration of themes such as betrayal, moral ambiguity, and redemption is central to its appeal. 

As Edgin and his allies navigate a world where the line between right and wrong is often blurred, they are forced to confront their own pasts and the consequences of their actions. 

This nuanced portrayal of heroes and villains challenges viewers’ preconceptions, adding depth and complexity to the narrative. Not gonna lie, we cried during a few of Edgin’s pep talks.

TL;DR

• While we are disappointed that the film didn’t delve more deeply into darkness, for example, by focusing more on Sovina, it’s still a hell of a good time.
• The film offers a fresh, captivating take on the beloved franchise.
• The fantastical setting, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes create a must-see experience.
• The film pushes storytelling boundaries, taking viewers on a thrilling journey.
• The movie explores a world where betrayal and redemption go hand in hand.

More D&D Content

Want to learn about the history of the Dungeons & Dragons tabletop game? Read “Roll for History: A Brief (but Comical) Look at the Evolution of Dungeons and Dragons “