Review of Excalibur (1981) by Joe A — 31 May 2012
One of my favorites, John Boorman's telling of the legend of King Arthur is an operatic and colorful fantasy filled with stunning imagery, spectacular and blood soaked battles, heroism, villainy, lustful sex and forbidden romance.
What's not to like. True it can be bombastic at times and lead Nigel Terry is a bit underwhelming as Arthur but, the film did bring then unknowns Gabriel Byrne, Patrick Stewart, Helen Mirren and Liam Neeson to the attention of the film world and features a wonderfully eccentric performance by Nicol Williamson as Merlin.
Ranks as one of the best fantasy films ever made and still holds up even with the Lord of the Rings trilogy setting a new standard for sword and sorcery. The final confrontation between Arthur and his son/nephew Mordrid is one of my favorite all time film images.
This review of Excalibur (1981) was written by Joe A on 31 May 2012.
Excalibur has generally received positive reviews.
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