“The Huntsman: Winter’s War,”  a prequel/sequel to the 2012 blockbuster “Snow White & the Huntsman,” was something short of average. Mildly entertaining at most, this movie failed to carry on a story and left me with more questions than answers.

Eric, played by Chris Hemsworth, and Sara, played by Jessica Chastain, must hide their romance from Queen Freya, played by Emily Blunt, since love is forbidden in her kingdom. Eric and Sara must defeat the evil Queen Ravenna, played by Charlize Theron, before she takes over another kingdom.

Although the movie lacked some essentials, like a steady storyline and more captivating and relatable characters, nothing led to more confusion than the absence of Snow White. Although Hemsworth’s character Eric, formally known as The Huntsman, is the focus of this Snow White spinoff, viewers everywhere felt that Snow White’s absence was hurtful to the film. Kristen Stewart portrayed the princess in 2012, however was not included in the sequel. Many claim the actress’ affair scandal with her director Rupert Sanders back when the first movie came out is the reasoning behind ditching Stewart and Sanders. Whatever the case, there was definitely a shift in mood during the second movie.

As far as beauty goes, this movie is excellent. The scenes that depict a winter environment are all stunning. There are lots of live-action Elsa’s castle vibes, something that makes this film appeal to more audiences.

A family could definitely go see this movie if the children were at least preteen due to the pretty and elegant sets. Younger kids might get frightened by the minimal gore, however if you can appreciate that part of the story and remember the way the Grimm brothers intended the story to be told, this movie will be enjoyable.

Raveena, played by Academy Award winning actress Charlize Theron, is by far the most well-developed and fierce character in either movie. Her powers as a character and her bold fashion choices make her the ultimate lovable villain. She is a strong  and empowering female force to say the least.

If Snow White were to have made an appearance the movie would have made more sense since there were so many references to her; after all this is her movie series. The fact that some personal drama is most likely what came between Stewart and Snow White makes the whole movie lose credibility. I understand a different director but not the elimination of the princess herself.

If Snow White would have been in and out, this movie would be getting a B- but unfortunately, she is absent. I give “The Huntsman: Winter’s War” a C+, although anticipate seeing more movies in the film series.