Willow (1988) Review: A Classic Tale of Heroism and Adventure

Willow (1988) is a classic fantasy adventure film that tells the story of a young farmer named Willow (played by Warwick Davis), who finds himself thrust into a world of magic, adventure, and danger. Directed by Ron Howard and produced by George Lucas, this film was a box office hit upon its release and has since become a beloved classic.

The film follows the journey of Willow, who is tasked with protecting a baby named Elora Danan, who is prophesized to bring about the downfall of the evil queen Bavmorda (played by Jean Marsh). Along the way, Willow teams up with a rogue swordsman named Madmartigan (played by Val Kilmer) and a band of unlikely heroes, including a sorceress named Fin Raziel (played by Patricia Hayes) and a pair of bumbling brownies.

The film is filled with stunning visuals and imaginative creatures, including the fierce and terrifying demon dogs that pursue our heroes, and the mischievous and diminutive brownies that provide much of the film’s comic relief. The special effects, while somewhat dated by today’s standards, were groundbreaking at the time and still hold up remarkably well.

One of the film’s greatest strengths is its memorable characters, from the determined and heroic Willow to the roguish and charming Madmartigan. Warwick Davis delivers a standout performance as the film’s protagonist, bringing both heart and humor to the role. Val Kilmer, meanwhile, steals every scene he’s in as the swashbuckling swordsman Madmartigan, delivering a performance that is both charismatic and hilarious.

At its core, Willow is a classic tale of heroism and adventure, with a timeless message about the power of determination and courage in the face of adversity. The film’s themes of good vs. evil, self-discovery, and the importance of friendship and teamwork are just as relevant today as they were when the film was first released.

Overall, Willow is a classic fantasy adventure film that has stood the test of time, thanks to its imaginative world-building, memorable characters, and timeless themes. Whether you’re a fan of fantasy films, adventure stories, or just great cinema in general, Willow is a must-see film that continues to captivate audiences to this day.

Cast

• Warwick Davis as Willow Ufgood,
• Val Kilmer as Madmartigan,
• Joanne Whalley as Sorsha,
• Jean Marsh as Queen Bavmorda,
• Patricia Hayes as Fin Raziel,
• Billy Barty as High Aldwin,
• David Steinberg as Meegosh.