The Princess Bride (1987)

 

True love. It's common fact that that particular statement has been around for quite some time. And nowhere is this quote more hilariously spoken than in 1987's “The Princess Bride”, a movie that blends together both comedy and fantasy all at the same time. While not a huge hit upon release, the film has certainly gained a following. And rightfully so. Mostly due to how funny it is. Directed by Rob Reiner, with a script by William Goldman based off his book, the movie has endured and enthralled audiences for nearly 35 years. There are some minor problems present, but the overall experience is more than worth the price of admission. “The Princess Bride” is an engaging and captivating film that pokes fun at the concept of a fairy tale.

The story has a grandfather (Peter Falk) proceeding to tell his grandson (Fred Savage) a story. In said story, a woman named Buttercup (Robin Wright) falls desperately in love with a man named Westley (Cary Elwes). However, he goes missing, and Buttercup is forced to marry a prince for his own selfish reasons. Now, under the disguise of a pirate, Westley must stop this from happening, and be with his true love. Can the two of them come together before it's too late? As you wish.

“The Princess Bride” is a rather funny and memorable film that pokes fun at fairy tales, as well as how the fantasy genre is portrayed.

The script by Goldman beautifully and hilariously incorporates the medieval time period, and the typical tropes that are associated with them. For instance, the main female protagonist is called Buttercup, and is later announced as a princess. Buttercup is a rather silly name for a princess if you think about it. Which brings me to another point: everyone talks about what they are going through before the action is unveiled. It's rather silly, yet, the conversations are engaging. There's also quite a lot of jokes that will leave you laughing for a long time. Thanks to Goldman's writing, the movie has a memorable plot, and even some of the most quotable lines in cinema history.

This can be in part due to Reiner's direction, and some amazing performances. With Reiner, he gives out simple but effective direction that gives each actor something unique to work on, as well as their own moment to shine.

Speaking of which, every actor on screen is absolutely perfect. Especially from both Elwes and Wright, who made her debut on film here. That's not to say the rest of the cast is great. The supporting cast do excellent jobs with what they are given. Savage and Falk portray a sense of realism, which gives the audience a chance to breathe. Plus, we having surprising roles from other actors like Wallace Shawn, Mandy Patinkin, and of course Andre the Giant giving out great comedic performances. Plus, we have other great actors like Christopher Guest, Carol Kane, and Billy Crystal with some of the best scene stealing moments in the feature. The cast in “The Princess Bride” doesn't get any better than this.

The cinematography is excellent. Adrian Biddle did an amazing job working around England, and getting various shots that have become synonymous with the film itself. Even the sets used in the film look great, and are distinctive of its own kind.

At only a mere 98 minutes, the editing done by Robert Leighton is also a plus. The movie has a flowing narrative that is easy to understand, and keeps the audience engaged greatly. Also, The action is handled quite effectively. From sword duels, to even a short brawl between Andre the Giant and Elwes, the choreography is time perfectly and enthralls the audience even further.

There are a few problems, as stated before, but they are minor and do not hold the film back by any means necessary.

For one thing, this movie is a product of the times; more specifically, the 80s. This can be seen in the creature effects, more specifically, the ROUS (Rodent of Unusual Size), which are portrayed as basically guys in rat costumes. And that can be a little distracting. Also, while the music by Mark Knopfler is fine, the soundtrack does have that synthesized feel to it. Being completely reminiscent of the decade that was the 1980s. And that's all there is to mention about the negatives here.

In conclusion, “The Princess Bride” is a hilarious, quotable, and downright fun experience to watch. And it needs to be seen. Do yourself a favor, and give this one a watch. But we can't end it like this. Everyone now: “Hello. My name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die.”