Review of Ladyhawke (1985) by Kai82 — 02 Oct 2021

A forgotten masterpiece and one of the best love stories I have seen in movies. It has a unique story, good twists and remarkable characters that won me over with ease. I have read that it is based on an old french tale but do not find a source for this.

The story is set in the 13 century in middle Italy. The thief Phillipe called “The Mouse” escapes the dungeon of the city of Aquila shortly before his execution. However this is bigger than he imagined as the ruling Bishop see this a personal insult to his rule and sends his personal guard to capture him.

As he is close to being caught a mysterious man named Etienne Navarre together with his hawk defeats the guards and safe him. The appearance of Navarre has such an impact of the guard captain Marquet that he rode immediately to the Bishop ruining multiple horses.

Phillipe is now in company with the mysterious Navarre who needs his help and his female companion Isabeau he only meets at night. This is the set up for the story. It is a great fantasy movie that does not need special effects or many elements you would associate with it.

The great story, mystery, characters and ideas are excellent enough to carry the movie. I never understood why the critics rated this so low. In my circle of friends it is valued as forgotten gem with great ideas for a story.

Lets go to the really great cast. I think they found excellent actors for all roles. Matthew Broderick is a great Phillipe. He nails the mousy part and is a good hearten thief. Impressive performance.

Rutger Hauer as Etienne Navarre is equally good. He is the stoic knight who is quarreling with life and his past. He is a kind man underneath but life has hardened him. Michelle Pfeiffer as Isabeau is the yin to the yang to Etienne.

Her great performance and good chemistry are a mayor selling point in the movie. John Wood as bishop of Aquila is the scheming and feared kind of villain. Some one you would not have as enemy or even knowing you exist.

Ken Hutchison plays captain Marquet who is the guard captain and chief henchman of the Bishop. Good and intimidating performance. Finally there is Leo McKern as Imperius. He is an elderly monk who is involved deeply in the events.

A truly great cast that does everything right. Then there are the sets and castles. I still remembered how good those looked. Be it Torrechiara castle which is an amazing location as is the decaying castle Rocca Calascio or castle Arquato (Not sure if this is not just a palace by the way).

The landscape also won me over even if it is not Lord of the Rings level. The falconry and training was excellent too. I am not sure if by today's standard are allowed to even say this. Overall this is a classic fantasy fairy tale.

It delivers from start to finish and the characters, story and atmosphere make this a must see recommendation for me.