Rating: Summary: Not quite as satisfying as when I first watched it Review: I saw this as a fairly young kid and was completely mesmerized by it. The lead actor (have forgotten his name) is absolutely amazing. It's always amazed me that we haven't really ever seen this person in another movie (to my knowledge) in other films. His ability to transform from simple errand boy to noble king through the movie is completely believable. While not quite as awe inspiring as when I first watched it this is still a great movie.
Rating: Summary: A MUST! Review: THIS MOVIE IS GREAT! I think the folks that own this own dvd will agree when i say its on the level of Braveheart when it comes to action and story line...I havent seen this movies since i was a boy...it was like watching it for the first time..the scenes are wonderful and vivid...If you like action, a great story line and supurb acting BUY IT NOW! and add to your collection...
Rating: Summary: You need to choose to be open to this movie Review: Wow! In reading the other reviews, I was so relieved to see that I'm not the only person out there who still gets into this film; there are some scenes that make every hair on the back of my neck stand out, they are so surreal and magical.Unfortunately, if you watch this DVD in a crowded room, with kids running around and knocking over popcorn bowls, with your cellphone turned on and your pager buzzing, you will miss the movie entirely. Like magic, it requires your commitment and attention if you want to get anything out of it. Luckily, if you pack the kids off to grandma's, toss the cellphone and pager into the dresser drawer, light some candles and warm up some mulled honey wine and pizza, this film will suck you in to the point where you'll be reeling and trying to remember your own name when the lights come back on. If your bedside table is stacked to overflowing with fantasy and children's fiction, if your idea of a good time is to invite your friends over for a medieval feast, complete with lute and recorder music, buy this DVD. The movie itself goes without comment; either you'll love it and wish you could live it, or you'll think it's cheesy and that Merlin is silly. The DVD is pretty good, although the sound could be a little more worked out; but in 1981 we were in a funny era in audio-video technology; we'd left behind some of the proven techniques that had been around since the 30's, without perfecting the new methods yet. As a result, some of the sounds and colors feel a bit dated. But I for one don't mind a bit, and had a GREAT time seeing this classic once more, in digital clarity.
Rating: Summary: ... But the DVD could use some work, PART 2. Review: I just watched Excalibur while listening to the director's commentary. So, now I realize that the intense colors were intentional. I can see (sort of) why Boorman did this, but in a way I still think the film would have been better without them.
Rating: Summary: One of may favorite movies. Review: Bormans Excalibur is one of the few movies that I can watch over and over again without finding it predictable or boring. What Borman has been able to capture is the true spirit of the Arthurian legend.
Rating: Summary: Incredible movie, but the DVD could use some work. Review: All I'm going to say about the movie is that it's excellent. But, I've got a few gripes about the DVD. For one, the colors are too vibrant. When was the last time you saw green moss that looked that green! And the trees... That same intense shade of green seemed to show up in every frame of the movie! Well, not quite, but if it wasn't glinting off Merlin's skull cap it was mirrored in the Sword or reflecting off of the water. Very strange... The sound got a little wacky at times, too. Sorta sounds like when the tape slows down then catches up. I only heard this once or twice, so it's not a big deal. Despite it's flaws, the DVD is worth getting. The picture does look nice. Umm, except in the scene where Percival throws the Sword back into the lake and The Lady reclaims it. As the Sword spins, it looks as if the techs didn't bother cleaning up that bit of the reel. Hopefully, WB will re-release this. But in the mean time, get it just because the movie is so good.
Rating: Summary: Great Atmosphere -- Wonderfully Unique Review: this is a good and clear DVD of an underrated movie. first, i'm not sure this movie stays 'faithful' to the legends simply because there are so many versions of the Arthurian myths; the more important elements (getting the sword, Merlins interactions w/Uther, Arthur and Morgan, Lancelot and Gwenevere, the last battle w/Modred) however, Excalibur did take liberty and combined key characters (i assume for easier continuity) like having one character fill the roles of Percival, Galahad and Bedivere. minor details aside, this film is wonderfully atmospheric with a nod to Kurasowa in cinematography. its stylish and broodish ambience is maintained throughout the film. the main story is intact and coherent, though the acting can be more dynamic. this movie was made to be seen on letterbox and the mostly Wagerian score is effectively used. a must for those interested in the Arthurian legends but also worth seeing for all movie fans.
Rating: Summary: Alot of fun,on DVD even BETTER! Review: I liked it alot,never seen it before ever. My friend had it on DVD & I was stunned....I have to disagree with Chris Zephro because the quality was ace. Maybe people underestimate the DVD experience....2 thumbs up!
Rating: Summary: Fantasy Perfection Review: When I first saw this film I was about 8 years old and watched an edited version on cable. While I found it exciting the shear brilliance of the film never realy hit me. Now as I watch Excalibur in early 2000 I can fully apreciate what a terrific film this is. 20 years after it's release Excalibur is still the best fantasy film ever to come out of hollywood. What Excalibur does that more fantasy films should do is it attempts to make a fantasy story mature. Excalibur is a dark and interesting re-telling of the classic story of King Aurthor. The film manages to feel more like a deep mythology than a simple fairy tale. This also causes the film to get incredibly weird at times. Excalibur also has excellent production values. Every scene is the film is dripping with a rich atmosphere which is largly helped by the film's excellent score. What realy elevates Excalibur above other fantasy films is that it takes itself very seriously.
Rating: Summary: I have to disagree with Chris Zephro Review: I found, when I purchased the DVD of this movie, that, expecially compared to VHS releases, that the Video and Sound are the clearest I've seen on TV with this Film. I fell in love with the film all over again!
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