The core problem with the Huntsman is a clear disconnect between the intended suspense and the storyline itself. In fact, the trailers and the synopsis give the whole thing away. So what are we left with? Not much: Eye candy, attempted Scottish accents, a bit of dry humor, and some fight scenes. Next time, instead of taking over lands, the sister queens should consider sending the Huntsman to find some suspense (or should it be Huntsmen?).
Now, this is definitely not a nightmare. There is some promise here; some spring flowers amongst the winter, if you will. Even in the ice age, Emily Blunt reminds us that she’s the real Screen Queen. Her role was demanding and she delivered. Will it finally win her much deserved Oscar? Probably not. But does it prove that she can literally work with ANY material? Yes indeed, and that is a real achievement.