Written by the great George Lucas, directed by Ron Howard and starring the likes of Warwick Davis and Val Kilmer, the fantasy movie Willow is a definite must-see for all those who like fantasy.
The movie was not a big success when it was released in theaters in 1988 but appreciation for it has grown over the years.
Willow may look somewhat outdated and the story slow and childish but the visual effects were very good for the time and the story is interesting and funny enough to keep you entertained. This is also why Willow can be found in the ranking of teh best fantasy movies ever made.
Story
Afraid of a prophecy according to which she will be brought down by a baby, the evil queen Bavmorda imprisons all pregnant women in her kingdom. The child of the prophecy is born in her dungeons but before Bavmorda has a chance to kill the baby, the midwife manages to escape with it. She is caught but puts the baby on a raft in the river. It ends up in the hands of the dwarf Willow who is reluctant at first but then starts caring for the baby.
When the town is attacked by servants of Bavmorda looking for the baby, Willow is sent on a quest to bring back the baby (who’s name turns out to be Elora Danan) to the world of the large people. On his way he is helped by the warrior Madmartigan, the brownies Franjean and Rool, queen of the forest Cherlindrea, the goat-sorceress Fin Raziel and an army that also happens to want to fight queen Bavmorda. After a lot of magic, fighting and cunning tricks, Willow and his friends manage to stop Bavmorda from killing the baby Elora.
Themes & Reception
Developed an produced by George Lucas and directed by Ron Howard, Willow was much anticipated. This was even more increased by the breakthrough use of CGI resulting in great visual effects. But when Willow was released in May 1988, it became a box office disappointment, receiving negative reviews from critics. They found the “good versus bad” and “reluctant hero” themes of the movie (the story is typical high/ heroic fantasy) too cliché for adults and deemed it too dark for children.
I do agree with this criticism but on the other hand, Willow did receive two Academy Award nominations and the film gave a boost to the careers of Warwick Davis and Val Kilmer. Over the years, the movie also became more and more appreciated by fans of the genre.
Tags: Fantasy Movies, Willow
