Willow (1988)

Willow (1988)
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Though Willow was one of director Ron Howard's few box-office disappointments, it definitely deserves a second look. At once an epic celebration and a gentle spoof of the sword-and-sorcery genre, the film concerns the efforts by little person Willow Ufgood (Warwick Davis) to protect a sacred infant from the machinations of a wicked queen (Jean Marsh). One source book has assessed the picture as a combination of The Ten Commandments and Snow White. This is true enough, except that neither one of those properties offered such offbeat casting choices as Billy Barty and Jean Marsh. Executive producer George Lucas has (through the conduit of screenwriter Bob Dolman) added elements of his own Star Wars saga to the stew. The results are generally satisfactory, though the film is sometimes weighed down by too much plot, and the action sequences may not be suitable for very young children. Incidentally, this is the film where co-star Val Kilmer met his future wife Joanne Whalley. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide

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Starring:
Val KilmerJoanne Whalley, (more)
Director(s):
Ron Howard
Theatrical MPAA Rating:
PG
Format(s):
DVD,  (View All Versions)
 

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Synopsis of Willow

Though Willow was one of director Ron Howard's few box-office disappointments, it definitely deserves a second look. At once an epic celebration and a gentle spoof of the sword-and-sorcery genre, the film concerns the efforts by little person Willow Ufgood (Warwick Davis) to protect a sacred infant from the machinations of a wicked queen (Jean Marsh). One source book has assessed the picture as a combination of The Ten Commandments and Snow White. This is true enough, except that neither one of those properties offered such offbeat casting choices as Billy Barty and Jean Marsh. Executive producer George Lucas has (through the conduit of screenwriter Bob Dolman) added elements of his own Star Wars saga to the stew. The results are generally satisfactory, though the film is sometimes weighed down by too much plot, and the action sequences may not be suitable for very young children. Incidentally, this is the film where co-star Val Kilmer met his future wife Joanne Whalley. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide

Theatrical Feature Running Time:
126 mins

Complete Cast of Willow


Director(s):
Ron Howard
Writer(s):
Bob Dolman
Producer(s):
Lee RichNigel Wooll
Theatrical MPAA Rating:
PG(Questionable for Children, Violence)
Categories:
Sci-Fi & Fantasy
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Member Reviews (42)

 
Garrett L.

Willow is a movie that I had fallen in love with as a child, and I had a very nostalgic disposition to this movie. Renting it again, I feared that it wouldn't live up to the expectations that I built up in my mind, but it not only met my expectations but exceeded them! There is a depth to this movie that may be enjoyed by an older generation, but also has that aura of whimsy that draws in the younger generation. I showed this movie to my young cousins, (ages 3-12) when I was taking care of them, and they watched it four times consecutively without a break. It is one of the few movies I know of that effectively entertaines all generations of viewers, and keeps them coming back for more. I would recommend this movie for anyone interested in a great time of escapism and fantasy!

Yes   |   No

 
Michael T.

I can't explain it, this movie has everything that sounds like it would be annoying (main character is a "little person", little actual death, and lots of fairy tale touches) but it comes off as a cool enjoyable film. This is one of the few movies I loved as a kid that still remains enjoyable today. Val Kilmer is great as "Mad Martigan" and its sort of a proof that Ron Howard had the skills to become a great director later in his career. If you liked this movie as a kid or if your a dork at heart, get it.

Yes   |   No

 
KAY H.

I enjoyed Willow just as much as before. The story line was a typical 'good vs. evil 'and the action was just enough to appeal to most age groups. The magic scenes compare to a 'Harry Potter' movie so if that is a concern for the tots...give a few more years. But, if you want an adorable and very funny fantasy film..here it is! Ron Howard showed true genious (I don't care what the so-called-'sperts say) with this movie. The characters all stood out on their own and held my interest throughout. I loved the casting of the little people for some of the parts...they bring a jest to the story only they can give. Children are able to relate better with them as well. Willow was a parent and as such could help the other characters focus on the seriousness of the quest. Enough tension throughout the story had me wondering what would happen next. This is great ENTERTAINMENT!!

Yes   |   No

 
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