THE HUNTSMAN: WINTER'S WAR

THE HUNTSMAN: WINTER'S WAR   This prequel to "Snow White and the Huntsman" is filled with wonderful special effects and costumes that dazzle and amaze.   But that's about it.  Starring Chris Hemsworth as the title character and Charlize Theron and Emily Blunt as a pair of sibling queens with heavy rivalry, the plot is about as convoluted as one can get.  We have a backstory wherein we learn how the huntsman came to be under the employ of Ms. Blunt's character who forbids him to fall in love with another of her warriors (Jessica Chastain) so, of course they do.  And as the plot thickens (or thins out, depending on your point of view) the prequel seems to turn into a sequel as the two sisters go to war.  Needless to say, all hell breaks loose with all manner of creatures joining the fray.  (Yes, there are some dwarfs, no doubt quite prevalent in Snow White's time).   We also are treated to what seemed an homage to Disney's "Frozen."   And while no one ever sings "Let it go,"  I'd recommend that you do.   It's pretty much a waste of time except for those special effects and Ms. Theron's beauty.   Alas, she is only in about a half hour or this nearly two hour film.  And I wanted more (script included.)