Excalibur

Film

Period and swashbuckler films

User ratings:

<strong>Rating: </strong>5/5
Rate this  

Time Out says

Visually impressive but generally muddled and uneven adaptation of Malory's Morte d'Arthur, both overlong and incoherent as it follows the quest for the Holy Grail and the climactic battle between Arthur and Mordred. Almost determinedly bizarre (or stupid?) in some of its characterisation - most notably Williamson's eccentric Merlin - it also adds a dash of gore and a touch of sex for good modernist measure. Nothing, however, can counter the film's inability to sway the emotions. For all its audacity, a misguided folly.

Author: GA

2

Comments

Add +

Release details

UK release:

1981

Duration:

140 mins

Cast and crew

Cast:

Robert Addie, Nicol Williamson, Nicholas Clay, Cherie Lunghi, Paul Geoffrey, Gabriel Byrne, Nigel Terry, Helen Mirren

Screenwriter:

Rospo Pallenberg, John Boorman

Producer:

John Boorman

Cinematography:

Alex Thomson

Director:

John Boorman

Editor:

John Merritt

Music:

Trevor Jones

Production Designer:

Anthony Pratt

Share your thoughts
  4. * mandatory fields

Comments & ratings

Rated as: 5/5 (2 ratings)

  • Simply superb and wonderful adapation of Malory's works. Gamy, gory but breaths life and has, simply put, the best adaptation of Merlin ever done.

    Zak Sat Aug 18 2012
    Rated as: 5/5
    Report

  • This is great film. It tries to mix the best bits if Arthurian Legend together, admittedly it doesn't always get it right. Nicol Williamson's eccentric Merlin is a joy and adds some light humour to the movie without taking away any of the characters worldly wise status. The casting is perfect with a noteable Helen Mirren performance as Morgana. Unfortunately the tight budget shows, some of the battle scenes suffer from a lack of extras. Visually stunning and worthy of it's solitary oscar. This film is a worthy addition to anyones collection.

    macsteady Tue Dec 8 2009
    Rated as: 5/5
    Report
  • Hotwise
  • Cool brands
  • Star