Emma Corrin Shines in 100 Nights of Hero’s Spellbinding Fantasy

Few tales have left as deep a mark on world storytelling as One Thousand and One Nights. Its influence stretches across centuries and continents, inspiring countless retellings. Now, the graphic novel The One Hundred Nights of Hero gets a cinematic adaptation, reimagined as 100 Nights of Hero under the direction of Julia Jackman. With a cast packed with rising stars, the film aims high, showcasing both emerging talent and Jackman’s creative vision, even if it doesn’t always hit every mark.

Plot: A Mythical Challenge and a Dangerous Wager

Set in a fantastical realm ruled by a strict religious order, a young couple faces mounting pressure to have a child. Jerome, played by Amir El-Masry, refuses to consummate his marriage with Cherry, portrayed by Maika Monroe. The couple is given a strict deadline by religious authorities: they must conceive within one hundred days. When Jerome’s friend Manfred (Nicholas Galitzine) arrives after a scandal, the two men strike a risky bet—Jerome will leave the castle for one hundred nights, and if Manfred seduces Cherry during that time, he’ll win the castle itself.

Cherry, left alone and unsettled by Manfred’s advances, turns to her maid Hero (Emma Corrin) for help. Hero steps in, weaving a tale about three women (Charli xcx, Olivia D’Lima, and Kerena Jagpal) who defied the law to learn to read. As Hero’s stories blur the line between fiction and reality, Cherry’s bond with her maid deepens in unexpected ways.

Performances: Humor, Chemistry, and Missed Opportunities

Corrin and Monroe, both known for their dramatic and horror roles, get to flex new comedic muscles here. Corrin, in particular, stands out, delivering a nuanced performance that relies on subtle expressions and a magnetic presence. Their ability to convey emotion with just a glance adds layers to a character that could have easily felt flat.

Monroe, stepping away from her usual scream queen territory, takes some time to settle into the film’s tone. Once she does, her chemistry with both Corrin and Galitzine brings authenticity to the central romance. Galitzine, meanwhile, offers a more conventional turn—charming but lacking the spark he’s shown in other projects. The supporting cast, including Charli xcx and Felicity Jones, feels underutilized, with some roles amounting to little more than cameos.

Visuals and Style: Modern Energy in a Fantasy World

The film’s biggest challenge comes from its blend of modern performances with a period setting. The actors’ contemporary energy sometimes clashes with the fantasy backdrop, creating a tension that’s hard to ignore. While this contrast highlights the story’s themes of women’s education and empowerment, it doesn’t always mesh seamlessly with the world-building.

Visually, though, the movie is a feast. The costumes are vibrant and textured, giving each character a distinct look. Makeup, wigs, and hair design all contribute to a rich, tactile atmosphere. Xenia Patricia’s cinematography, paired with detailed production design, bathes the castle in a dreamy haze, setting the film apart from the flat visuals of many streaming-era period pieces.

Craft and Adaptation: A Unique Take on a Classic

100 Nights of Hero stands out for its commitment to craft and its bold adaptation choices. The film’s dreamy, storybook feel is a rarity in today’s movie landscape, and its fantasy visuals will appeal to genre fans. The central relationship is satisfying, even if the film’s themes don’t always land as powerfully as intended.

Director Julia Jackman brings together a talented creative team to realize her vision. While the film doesn’t always reach its full potential, it nails the atmosphere and offers a fresh, cinematic take on a beloved story. 100 Nights of Hero opens in theaters December 5, 2025, distributed by IFC Films.