Scarlet, a medieval-era, sword-fighting princess on a dangerous quest to avenge the death of her father is the protagonist of this powerful, timebending animated adventure. After failing in her mission and finding herself fatally injured in a surreal world, she encounters an idealistic young man from our present day who not only helps her to heal but shows her the possibility of a future free from bitterness and rage. When confronted once more by her father’s killer, Scarlet faces her most daunting battle: can she break the cycle of hatred and find meaning in life beyond revenge?

 “Scarlet” attempts to critique the toxicity of vengeance and appeals to the healing power of forgiveness. Should Scarlet find some way to empathize with her evil uncle? What are the limits of dispensing absolution?
Robert Daniels
Roger Ebert