Prince Harming

"Prince Harming" is clearly a very indie film which may not be able to compete with bigger budget production value but makes way up for it with heart, authenticity and great acting. I liked the relationship that Victoria and her mother had throughout the film. Prince Harming" comes off as very genuine how it depicts the escalation of abuse in a relationship that started off as a dream come true.

Equal parts poignant and haunting, this film breathes heart(ache), humor and authenticity! Marianne is an extraordinary, wholly unique filmmaker on the rise! A timely, MUST SEE film!!!!

I just saw this film on Amazon Prime. I liked that Victoria, the main character was a go-getting independent woman, making life on her own. The script explored causes and reasons abuse happens in the home. It made me wonder ... was she better off alone? Probably not because she wasn't with the right guy, and she wanted someone. I was glad the film made me think. As the film progressed her descent into total humiliation was well established and portrayed. There was great acting.

"Prince Harming" stands out as a gripping tale of survival and self-discovery in the wake of abuse. Marianne Hettinger, both in front of and behind the camera, delivers a masterful performance and direction that resonates deeply with audiences, particularly those who have experienced abusive relationships.

Hettinger's portrayal of the protagonist is riveting and authentic, capturing the emotional turmoil and eventual triumph with raw sincerity. Through her nuanced performance, viewers are invited to witness the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

The supporting cast adds layers of complexity to the narrative, with Andreas Beckett's portrayal of the abuser sending chills down the spine. Deborah S. Craig and Velson D'Souza, as the protagonist's steadfast friends, offer a beacon of hope and support amidst the darkness, showcasing the importance of solidarity in times of need.

What sets "Prince Harming" apart is its unflinching portrayal of abuse and its aftermath. Hettinger fearlessly confronts the harsh realities of toxic relationships, refusing to romanticize or sensationalize the pain and trauma endured by survivors. Yet, amidst the heartache, there is a powerful message of empowerment and resilience, reminding viewers that they are not defined by their past.

As a director, Hettinger demonstrates a keen understanding of storytelling, employing intimate visuals and evocative imagery to immerse audiences in the protagonist's journey. The film's pacing is deliberate, allowing for moments of introspection and revelation that leave a lasting impact.

"Prince Harming" is a testament to the power of independent cinema to shine a light on important social issues. It's a film that prompts reflection and conversation, urging viewers to confront the realities of abuse while offering hope for healing and redemption.

Review by Nola Berzinski.

I enjoyed this film a lot! I liked the complex characterization of the protagonist Victoria: strong, gutsy, quirky, vulnerable, positive and fierce. There's a lot of humor - some dark, some subtle, some slapstick - which makes the film flow well and frames an intense topic very well...It is so refreshing and so lovely to see a beautiful woman on screen without artifice and pretense! Inspiring and relatable at the same time.