Overview"Excalibur" is a timeless British-American impressive dream film shot in 1981, directed and produced by John Boorman. The movie is an adaptation of the Arthurian legends focusing on the story of King Arthur, Queen Guinevere, Sir Lancelot, the sorcerer Merlin, and the legendary sword Excalibur.
StoryThe movie begins with Uther Pendragon receiving Excalibur, a magical sword from the wizard Merlin. Utilizing the sword's power, Uther combines Britain versus the Saxons. Nevertheless, Uther's lust for Duke Gorlois' better half causes his downfall, and he impregnates her following a deceitful tactic. After the duke's death, Uther delegates the newborn Arthur to Merlin, embedding Excalibur into stone prior to passing away.
The story then moves to a number of years later, including a young Arthur who suddenly pulls Excalibur from the stone demonstrating his right to rule. Under the guidance of Merlin, Arthur successfully joins all of Britain. Arthur develops his kingdom around the Round Table to signify equality amongst his knights. He marries the stunning Guinevere, and his friend, Sir Lancelot, becomes his most relied on knight.
Conflicts and ClimaxThe serenity within the kingdom is interfered with when Arthur learns about the affair between Lancelot and Guinevere. Arthur's distress compromises his rule of the kingdom and his control over Excalibur. Meanwhile, Arthur's half-sister Morgana, who abhors him and the kingdom, deceives Merlin and sires a child, Mordred, using Arthur's seed, meaning to utilize the kid for her vengeance.
As Mordred grows, Morgana manipulates him into demanding Arthur's kingdom and Guinevere. Mordred and Arthur clash in a harsh fight, throughout which most knights from the Round Table, including Lancelot, get eliminated. Arthur is fatally injured, but with Merlin's assistance, he obtains Excalibur and kills Mordred.
Wrap up and LegacyBefore dying, Arthur designates an enduring knight to return Excalibur to the Lady of the Lake, representing the end of Arthur's reign. The film concludes by portraying Arthur as an everlasting "Once and Future King" who would return in Britain's hour of need.
"Excalibur" has actually acquired a cult following for its dark, violent, and sexual adaptation of the Arthurian legend. Its gritty depiction of medieval life, standout efficiencies, grand sets, lavish costumes, and a stirring orchestral score continues to awe audiences and filmmakers alike. The film is also noted for its early looks of distinguished stars like Helen Mirren, Patrick Stewart, and Liam Neeson.
Top Cast
