Excalibur (1981) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Introduction
“Excalibur,” directed by John Boorman and released in 1981, is a visually stunning and epic adaptation of the Arthurian legends. The film is renowned for its grandiose portrayal of King Arthur’s rise to power, the quest for the Holy Grail, and the complex interplay of fate, magic, and betrayal. With its rich visual style and ambitious storytelling, “Excalibur” has become a notable entry in the fantasy genre. This review will delve into the film’s key elements and provide information on where to watch it online.
Plot Summary
“Excalibur” chronicles the legendary story of King Arthur, from his birth and the discovery of the magical sword Excalibur to his establishment of the Round Table and the quest for the Holy Grail. The film begins with the legendary sword being pulled from the stone by the young Arthur (played by Nigel Terry), signaling his destiny as the rightful king of England.
The narrative follows Arthur’s journey as he unites the kingdom, contends with the treacherous Morgana (played by Helena Bonham Carter), and deals with internal strife and betrayal. Central to the story is Arthur’s relationship with his loyal knights, his love for Guinevere (played by Cherie Lunghi), and the pursuit of the Grail, which symbolizes spiritual and moral purity.
Performances
The film features a talented cast delivering memorable performances:
- Nigel Terry as King Arthur: Terry portrays Arthur with a blend of youthful idealism and mature resolve. His performance captures Arthur’s transformation from an uncertain young man into a wise and powerful king.
- Helen Mirren as Morgana: Mirren’s portrayal of the enchantress Morgana is both captivating and menacing. Her performance adds depth to the film’s exploration of magic and betrayal.
- Cherie Lunghi as Guinevere: Lunghi brings elegance and emotional depth to her role as Arthur’s queen. Her character’s struggles and relationship with Arthur are central to the film’s dramatic tension.
- Gabriel Byrne as Uther Pendragon: Byrne’s portrayal of Arthur’s father provides a crucial backdrop for the story, emphasizing the legacy that Arthur inherits.
Direction and Cinematography
John Boorman’s direction of “Excalibur” is marked by its epic scope and mythic quality. Boorman’s vision blends historical and fantastical elements to create a rich and immersive world. The film’s narrative is complemented by its grand visual style and sweeping cinematography.
The cinematography, handled by Alex Thomson, is notable for its lush and atmospheric visuals. The use of natural landscapes, dramatic lighting, and intricate set designs enhances the film’s epic and magical atmosphere. The visual style contributes significantly to the film’s impact and its portrayal of Arthurian legend.
Themes and Atmosphere
“Excalibur” explores themes of destiny, honor, and the moral struggles of leadership. The film delves into the idea of the hero’s journey and the responsibilities of leadership, as well as the complexities of power, loyalty, and betrayal. The quest for the Holy Grail represents a search for spiritual and ethical enlightenment.
The atmosphere of the film is one of grandeur and mysticism. The blend of historical drama and fantasy elements creates a rich and immersive experience. The film’s tone balances epic battles and magical elements with personal drama and moral dilemmas, offering a multifaceted portrayal of the Arthurian legends.
Critical Reception
“Excalibur” received generally positive reviews from critics upon its release, praised for its ambitious scope, visual style, and faithful adaptation of Arthurian legend. The film has been recognized for its influential depiction of the medieval fantasy genre and its impact on subsequent films and television adaptations of the Arthurian myths.
While some critics noted the film’s melodramatic elements and complex narrative, it remains a respected and influential entry in the fantasy genre, appreciated for its artistic achievements and epic storytelling.
Where to Watch Excalibur (1981) Online
If you’re interested in watching “Excalibur,” here are some streaming services and platforms where it is available, particularly in the United States:
- Amazon Prime Video
- Availability: “Excalibur” is available for rental or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. Rental prices typically range from $3.99 to $4.99, while purchasing the film may cost between $9.99 and $14.99.
- Apple TV
- Availability: The film can be rented or purchased on Apple TV. Rental prices are usually around $3.99, with purchase options ranging from $9.99 to $14.99.
- Google Play Movies & TV
- Availability: “Excalibur” may be available for rent or purchase on Google Play Movies & TV. This platform provides flexibility for viewing on various devices.
- YouTube Movies
- Availability: The film may be available for rental or purchase on YouTube Movies, offering another option for accessing the film on a range of devices.
- Vudu
- Availability: Vudu offers the option to rent or buy “Excalibur.” Known for its high-quality streaming, Vudu is a good choice for watching the film on demand.
- Hulu
- Availability: The film is not currently available on Hulu but may appear on other streaming platforms or for rental/purchase.
Conclusion
“Excalibur” (1981) is an epic and visually stunning adaptation of the Arthurian legends that offers a grand portrayal of King Arthur’s rise to power and the quest for the Holy Grail. With its impressive direction by John Boorman, strong performances from its cast, and its rich visual and thematic elements, the film remains a significant entry in the fantasy genre.
Call to Action
Ready to embark on a legendary journey with “Excalibur”? Stream or rent the film on your preferred platform today and experience the epic tale of King Arthur and his quest for the Holy Grail. Enjoy the film’s captivating storytelling, magnificent visuals, and timeless themes.
