Excalibur

Starring: Nigel Terry, Helen Mirren, Nicol Williamson, Gabriel Byrne, Patrick Stewart, Liam Neeson
Written by: Thomas Malory, Rospo Pallenberg
Director: John Boorman
Year: 1981

Rating: * * * *  Stars       +       (Fan Bonus -  )  Total: * * * *

A sword of power, A boy turned King, and a love affair that destroyed a kingdom.

Arguably the gold standard in the Arthurian Legend on film. This film covers the conquest of the Britains by King Uther, his betrayal of the alliance, and his siring of his child, Arthur. It follows Arthur as a young squire when he retrieves Excalibur from the stone, the arrival of Merlin who explains to Arthur his true lineage, and is a guiding hand as Arthur brings peace, erects a castle, and forms the round table. He is betrayed by his wife and greatest knight, forcing him into a great depression, and the land suffers for it. After questing for the Holy Grail, Arthur finds his courage and strength and sets out to fight those that would conquer Camelot.

This adaptation of the Arthurian Legend is a perfect blend of both the Christian and Pagan adaptations of this often altered tale of Britain's greatest king. Nicol Williamson is the greatest actor to have portrayed Merlin. He is both wise, yet comical. He is magical, yet seems very down to Earth. His robes seem more hermit-like, betraying the stature of his role as King's Adviser.  Helen Mirren is seductive and ruthless as Arthur's half-sister Morgana, who casts a spell to sleep with her brother in order to bare a son who will overthrow him. Nigel Terry as Arthur is just fantastic. He performs well as Arthur through many stages in life, such as the uncertain lad, the noble King, the repentant husband, and the courageous old man. Familiar actors such as Patrick Stewart, Liam Neeson, and Gabriel Byrne are excellent in their supporting roles.

Whether a low budget film or not, Director John Boorman kept all visual effects grounded in believabilty. Even the magic was regulated to smoke machines and chants by the actors. A wonderfully selected classical score, dominated by works from Richard Wagner, keeps this film epic. Certainly not a kids film, but for young adults wanting a good sense of the story of King Arthur, you can't do better.

SEE THE TRAILER: Excalibur