This is the time of year where we get all kinds of stories offered in theaters. Among them are creative and daring pieces with strong casts. But not all of them find their way within the big swings they take.

Such is the case with 100 Nights of Hero, a new IFC film that gets a limited release this Friday. It’s got a great cast and a unique hook. It has a quality look of a fairy tale brought to life. But, in the end, it doesn’t deliver on its premise.

We’re whisked to an alternate world where women’s only role is to marry and produce heirs to please the local leaders. Into this was thrust Cherry (Maika Monroe), a beautiful young woman who has fulfilled her role as a bride. But despite a good match with Jerome (Amir El-Masry), no heir has come. That’s put her in the crosshairs of the Birdmen who run things and Jerome’s family.

But, as it turns out, it’s not all on Cherry. Jerome, though a dashing choice, seems little interested in his wife. But when an old friend, Manfred (Nicholas Galitzine), arrives and questions Cherry’s virtue, Jerome defends her. He offers his friend 100 nights to prove him wrong, in which case he’d win the castle.

As Jerome departs, Cherry is left alone with Manfred and the servants, including her loyal maid Hero (Emma Corrin). Seeing the potential threat Manfred presents, Hero begins to weave an intricate story. As she does, time seems to fly at an uneven rate. Can she keep her narrative going long enough for Cherry to last 100 nights?

This is an interesting take on a story and world-building. It comes from writer/director Julia Jackman, based on the book by Isabel Greenberg. It’s got a great look and a fun premise. The world-building really helps to land you in the story with these characters.

There is also a great sense of humor. Corrin, Monroe, and Galitzine do a nice job of going back-and-forth, and adding humorous touches. That helps keep you invested in the story. I particularly liked Corrin in the role of Hero. She has some great line deliveries and some great moments.

But while this starts out quirky and fun, the premise wears a bit thin as we move forward. That combined with a strange, and rushed-feeling third act, left me a bit underwhelmed by the finished product. Still, it has some fun moments and will likely be a fun watch for fans of the genre, especially when it lands on stream.

100 Nights of Hero lands in limited release on Friday, December 5.

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.