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Legend (1985) on IMDb

A Review of Legend (1985): A Magical Fantasy Adventure

She is of the purest innocence. He is pure evil. He is darkness.

Legend, directed by Ridley Scott, is a classic fantasy film that was released in 1985. Set in a mystical world filled with fairies, unicorns, and demons, the movie tells the story of Jack (Tom Cruise) and Princess Lili (Mia Sara), who must save their world from the clutches of darkness. With a star-studded cast, dazzling visuals, and an enchanting soundtrack by Tangerine Dream, Legend is a magical adventure that has stood the test of time.

One of the standout features of Legend is its stunning visuals. The film was shot entirely on a soundstage, which allowed Ridley Scott to create a world that is both fantastical and realistic. The use of practical effects, such as puppetry and makeup, adds to the film’s charm and gives the characters a sense of physical presence. The cinematography is also top-notch, with the camera capturing every detail of the intricate sets and costumes. The result is a visually stunning film that transports the audience to a world of magic and wonder.

Another strength of Legend is its memorable soundtrack. Tangerine Dream’s score perfectly complements the film’s visuals, adding to the sense of otherworldliness. The music is both haunting and beautiful, with each track capturing the mood of the scene it accompanies. The use of synthesized instruments gives the score a futuristic feel, which is fitting for a film set in a fantasy world. The soundtrack is so effective that it has become a classic in its own right, with many fans still listening to it today.

The performances in Legend are also noteworthy. Tom Cruise, in one of his early roles, brings a youthful energy to the character of Jack. His chemistry with Mia Sara, who plays Princess Lili, is believable and adds to the emotional weight of the film. Tim Curry is also excellent as the villainous Lord of Darkness, bringing a sense of menace to the character. The supporting cast, which includes Billy Barty and David Bennent, also give memorable performances that add to the film’s charm.

Despite its many strengths, Legend does have a few weaknesses. The pacing can be slow at times, and the plot is relatively simple. However, these flaws are overshadowed by the film’s visual and musical strengths, which make it a joy to watch. Legend may not be a perfect film, but it is a classic of the fantasy genre and a testament to Ridley Scott’s skill as a director.

In conclusion, Legend is a must-see film for fans of the fantasy genre. Its stunning visuals, memorable soundtrack, and strong performances make it a classic that has stood the test of time. Despite its flaws, it is a magical adventure that will transport viewers to a world of wonder and enchantment. Whether you are a fan of Tom Cruise or simply love a good fantasy film, Legend is a movie that should not be missed.

Legend
Theatrical release poster by John Alvin.

Cast

The cast of Legend (1985) includes:

  1. Tom Cruise as Jack
  2. Mia Sara as Princess Lili
  3. Tim Curry as the Lord of Darkness
  4. David Bennent as Honeythorn Gump
  5. Alice Playten as Blix
  6. Billy Barty as Screwball
  7. Cork Hubbert as Brown Tom
  8. Peter O’Farrell as Pox
  9. Kiran Shah as Blunder
  10. Annabelle Lanyon as Oona
  11. Robert Picardo as Meg Mucklebones (uncredited)
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