Wings of Fire: The Dragon Slayer Is My Ex-Lover

This is my first 10 rating for a "vertical/short" film. The medieval theme was a refreshing change from the billionaire CEO, the illegitimate offspring and other soap opera themes that are so commonplace in this category.

The story was engaging and reasonably suspenseful. This theme worked well for Seth Edeen...a warrior knight returning to reclaim his lost love (and son he didn't know about). His acting was the most natural and convincing that I've seen.

Nicole Mattox is correctly regarded as one of the best female leads in the short industry. Each scene she does is engaging and credible. She has the ability to convey a particular emotion with her eyes. Whether the romantic chemistry between Edeen and Mattox is real or acted, it came across on screen palpably.

A true character bonus was Marlena Becker as the evil princess. She was scripted to be constantly conniving, but her attractiveness and natural charm made her oddly engaging even as a villainess. Why this actress doesn't take more roles is surprising and kind of disappointing.

I will likely watch this flick many times.

Of course, it's a perfect score! This short film is nothing short of a dream come true-it feels like a romance novel from a bygone era has been brought vividly to life on screen. Every element, from casting to costume to atmosphere, draws you into a world of noble passion and timeless longing.

Seth Edeen's portrayal of the dragon-slaying knight is nothing less than mesmerizing. He looks like he stepped straight out of the pages of a classic romance-tall, courageous, and wholly devoted. His presence commands the screen, and his unwavering love feels both old-fashioned and deeply moving.

Nicole Mattox, in contrast, brings a breath of fresh air with her graceful and ethereal performance. The emotional tension between her and the knight is palpable, filled with longing, restraint, and unspoken truths that keep your heart caught in every glance. Their love story is not only believable, but beautifully restrained and haunting.

Adding an unexpected twist is Marlena Becker as the villainous princess. With her striking beauty and magnetic aura, she's a character you can't help but watch-even when she's standing in the way of true love. Her performance adds a layer of complexity, proving that even the antagonist can leave a lasting impression.

I've always hoped that the sweeping emotions of historical romance novels could one day be translated to film. Now, with the rise of short-form storytelling, that long-held wish has finally come true. This film is more than just a fantasy-it's a heartfelt tribute to the genre, and a reminder that love, when told well, never goes out of style.

Fun fact: this film is essentially a period drama version of Breaking the Ice. The storyline is almost identical, and several lines of dialogue are repeated. And yet, I found this historical version far more enchanting. The setting, the costumes, the fantasy flair-it all adds an irresistible charm that elevates the same core story into something truly magical. Highly recommended!