"I fully expect to meet you at the Pearly Gates, little thief, and don't you dare disappoint me." "I'll meet you there, Father... even if I have to pick the lock." Fun Fact: Curtis Armstrong auditioned for the role of Philippe Gaston (Matthew Broderick). Horse Wangler Fact: Captain Etienne Navarre (Rutger Hauer) rides a Friesian stallion that originated in The Netherlands, Rutger Hauer's native country. The breed was popular among medieval knights. The 19-year-old stallion Othello was the most prominently used horse. Stunt SNAFU Fact: In one scene, Captain Etienne Navarre (Rutger Hauer) tells Philippe Gaston to ride his horse to Imperius' (Leo McKern) castle and slaps the horse's rear to make it ride. However, the first time the scene was filmed, Hauer slapped the horse too hard and it took off over the hill and off into the horizon. The horse was too powerful for Matthew Broderick to stop, so all everyone could do was sit and wait for him to come back. Hawk Wangler Fact: Spike II, the hawk featured in this movie, worked in the Universal Bird Show until 2000, when she was transferred to the National Audubon Society and became an Audubon Ambassador until she died in May 2007. Another hawk was used for flying scenes, and another to sit on Rutger Hauer's arm. One enjoyed Hauer's company so much it would ruffle its feathers when seated on his arm, making it look more like a chicken.
Oh I could see Armstrong in this role but that would have been a very different movie. lol It truly was a beautiful horse. I think having a chicken in the movie instead of a hawk would also have been quite a different movie. ;)
I didn't recognize how humorous this movie was throughout its entirety You brought so much awareness that I couldn't see before... oh geese it is funny.
My biggest HOORAY to finally seeing another watchable reaction on this channel. I recommended this back when your channel began and mever expected to actually see it any time soon. Thank you to the patreon person or poll or whatever made this happen.
This might be a cheesy 80s movie but I was 14 when I saw this and I don't care what anyone else thinks. I will always love this movie. It is forever part of my childhood. (GREAT CAST!!!!!) ❤
"Walk, on the left side!" 😂😂😂 Gods I love this movie. Actually, this movie introduced me to Matthew Broderick. Surprisingly, there's only a handful of movies with him that I've enjoyed.
Thank you for doing this one. First time watcher here, and I loved your reaction. This movie does not get enough love from reactors, which is sad. I saw it in theaters when it came out, and you are right - the clichés are there now, but I don't know if I was smart enough back then to realize it. I think we were all pretty naïve, and didn't expect as much from our movies as we do now. The music is...home, I guess. It feels good to me in this movie, and it only goes really hard when there is action on the screen, and when the moments are quieter, the music just is kind of there in the background and gets more soft with an organic feel. The Ferris Bueller bits absolutely put the movie over the top, and I don't think it ever pulls the watcher out of the setting. The cinematography is absolutely gorgeous, and even when people don't like the movie, this is what they say the movie nailed. Shiny swords, the armor, all of it is just a little weird, but if you let it the story just pulls you in. I like your word for it - Enchanting. Thank you again.
So glad you reacted to this movie…you never see it on here. Definitely a hidden gem. Found your channel through Return to Me (one of my favorites). New sub ☺️
Final post, I love how, at the end, she approaches Navarre like he is the Wolf. Hands out, slowly, and gently, with a bit of fear. Following that, she drops the jesses (tethers that are used for birds of prey that are typically attached to the legs) into the Bishop's hands.
12:23 you are correct. Character way Roy. Batty. Tears in the rain sceen made me cry. Sorry missus identic memory i can name most the movies I've scene wierd that way I even can recite dialouge.
Thank you. Ladyhawke was filmed in Italy, using a number of locations, some near the real-world L'Aquila, where the movie is set. The town of Castell'Arquato and the castle of Torrechiara, both in the Emilia-Romagna.
I always forget that Cezar, the wolf hunter, is played by Alfred Molina. And it's also fun that Matthew Broderick and John Wood (the bishop) starred in Wargames together before this. If you would like a suggestion for another great, 80's film but more of a sci-fi genre...I'd suggest "Alien Nation" (1988) with James Caan and Mandy Patinkin (Inigo in The Princess Bride).
You're the first movie reactor I've seen to react to this movie . I've tried getting other reactors to do this movie , but with no luck . It's cool that you reacted to this .
finally someone reacting to this awesome movie...i was like 7 when this came out...not once i thought or ever hear someone say that theme song sounded like aerobic music...lol...this movie makes me cry
Thank you so much for this. I've never seen anyone react to this movie before, but it is one of my all time favorites. It was the movie my wife and I watched on our first date, and many, many times in the years that followed. We were married for over 32 years, and I lost her almost 5 years ago to cancer. This is the first time I've "watched" it since then.
My sympathies, @ Tallenn. My wife and I learned we both already loved Ladyhawke during our first conversation, a good 30 + years ago. I've been obsessed with hawks and falcons since I was 11 and her favorite animal was the wolf.
I’ve always enjoyed this one, since 16yo me saw it in the theater. Glad you enjoyed it too. Another fantasy movie from this era you might like is Dragonslayer (1981).
Go back three years to 1982. "Chariots of Fire" did something similar with its own soundtrack: using electronics, when "period" was expected. It topped the charts, and nobody, I mean NOBODY, talks smack about THAT.
27:07: The visual may be "limited" but they make the most of it, all with the poetry of the light, the camera work, and the cooperation of the viewer to enter into the enchantment.
Ladyhawke was released in 1985, one year before Ferris Bueller's Day Off did. The way Phillipe talks to God is very similar to Bueller's fourth wall breaking banter, both characters played by Matthew Broderick. John Hughes had Broderick in mind when he wrote FBDO's screenplay in 1985. I can't help but assume that Broderick's performance in Ladyhawke very probably inspired how Hughes wrote FBDO.
The music was because of Richard Donner, it was done by Jefferson Airplane, he and his then wife fell in love listening to the band and so he got them to score the music for the movie. Granted the music's kind of camp but the movie is fantastic
When this movie came out there was a lot of press about the soundtrack. The composer wanted to mix Medieval styling with soaring strings and synth to create an innovative sound that was both classical and modern. There were many people who hated it and still hate it. But I LOVED it. Now days some of the musicality are still seen in many scores. (Hans Zimmer.....etc. who combine orchestra with modern sounds.) I remember how they covered it as one of the first to use synth as a base to build on. I need to go to Amazon and purchase it since along the way I lost my vinyl,
This was one of the VERY few movies where Rutger Hauer plays an unambiguous hero. He usually plays villains, or anti-heroes. There were two big criticisms of the movie: The soundtrack (though the orchestral score is beautiful) and Matthew Broderick, who is said to be very out of place. However I think that's the point: Philippe is a common thief of a very mundane Medieval setting who gets swept up in a fantastical adventure involving curses and magic. He's just as out of place in the story as Broderick himself. Michelle Pfeifer was GORGEOUS. Navarre's sword is about 200-300 years too advanced for the setting. I love Imperious. He inspired a character in my own novels. It should be noted you should never yank an arrow out like that. Even in the Middle Ages they knew better, and used specialized tools for the job. Cesar is played by a VERY YOUNG Alfred Molina. A sword that size would only weigh about 6-8 pounds. They were not nearly as heavy as pop culture has made them look. I love the juxtaposition of Navarre in black and Marquet in white, reversing the classic good color/evil color scheme. The eclipse that's the key to breaking the curse should have been impossible because the phase of the moon was wrong. The night before the finale, the moon is full. However an eclipse can only occur during a new moon, which wouldn't occur until about 14 days after a full moon. So even if anyone in the setting would have thought about an eclipse, they STILL wouldn't have believed Imperious because the phases of the moon were wrong. In fact, people in the Middle Ages absolutely knew how to calculate when an eclipse occurred, as well as how they happened, so yet again, even if he understood the riddle, Navarre (an educated man) likely would have still thought Imperious was nuts because there wasn't supposed to be one. This strongly suggests that the eclipse itself may have been divine intervention to help break the curse. The final duel between Navarre and Marquet is IMO one of the best sword fights committed to film. The sword was never lost, they just said it was to try to get Navarre to listen to them. I LOVE the way Isabeau drops the jesses and hood she wore as a hawk at the Bishop's feet, and the look of utter hatred on her face when she does so. Stone. Cold. The 80s may have been THE best decade for fantasy movies. There were some stinkers, sure, but Ladyhawke, Willow, Labyrinth, Conan the Barbarian, Clash of the Titans, Beastmaster, Highlander, SO many amazing fantasy films to come out of it.
5:50 "I think a lot of movies today just spell things out too obviously." Today, the average moviegoer has an attention span just long enough for a TikTok video. If they don't drag the audience in and tell them what is going on in that short timeframe, those same audience members pick up their phone and watch TikTok instead. Don't take my word for it. Hollywood has tested it many times when the occasional movie tries the 80s style of keeping the audience in the dark for the first act. Inevitably those movies get bad reviews. "Too confusing" being the common thread. Now they don't even try anymore. Good moviemaking is an art that has been lost to the festering bowels of social media.
This is one of My favorite movies. You should watch blind fury when you get a chance, you will absolutely fall in love with Rutger. Hauer. He was also in a movie called wanted Dead or alive. That is another great one. I feel like this is the story of my life, sometimes getting just close to a perfect relationship and having it slip through my fingers. One time in particular. We dated for 6 months, she lived in Winnipeg, I live in Phoenix. We spent 5 or 6 hours every night talking on the phone. 2,000 miles apart and it was the closest I ever felt to anyone. Sadly it slipped through my fingers and I just couldn't figure out how to save it. The only other time I came close was somebody. I fell in love with, the one who saved me from the sorrow from my divorce. She never knew how much I loved her because she did not feel the same way about me. But there was a moment where a really dumb guy broke up with her and she was crying on my shoulder. She said who's going to Fall in love with me when I have two kids from two different fathers. And from the bottom of my soul I was screaming you're holding him now. But I never said a word, because I never wanted to make her feel awkward. It wasn't a friend zone thing, she just didn't see me that way. I was lucky enough to have her as a friend. But she kissed me on the neck and thanked me for being there for. And I just said always. So I cried pretty hard at the end of professor Snape. Anyway, I'm glad you saw this, it is an extraordinary film. And in the movie lethal weapon, there's a theater scene that has the horse riding through the cathedral. It is the scene from ladyhawk. Richard Donner did lethal weapon as well as this.
I think that is why this movie is so good --- it really resonates with true to life experiences especially with heartbreak and longing. That ending scene can feel so liberating and sobering at the same time!! Thanks for sharing :)
@@okchristina thank you for the kind words. When you get to a point where you want to watch a romantic comedy that is directed by a brilliant woman, I recommend return to me. It star's mini driver and David duchovny and it was directed by Bonnie Hunt. And if you're not familiar with Bonnie Hunt, zee has a small role in the film where she's married to Jim Belushi. The man eating the donut getting yelled at by David duchovny is her husband. She wouldn't let him be in the film unless he had something in his mouth so he wouldn't ruin the take. She chose a donut.
the music ? Conducted by Andrew Powell Performed by The Philharmonia Orchestra, While all the tracks are written by conductor Andrew Powell, director Richard Donner wanted Alan's signature sound to be highlighted and it is here, beautifully ...
Of all the other movies of its type of the time, The Princess Bride was always the one that was most like this. And for me this one was almost as good and just as important.
@@okchristina ahhhh correction it was 1995 conspiracy theory with mel gibson:> there is a scene in a theater with it playing on the screne I think I thought highlander as it came out around the same time.
I saw this movie when it originally came out, and had to remind myself that women back then would sometimes cut their hair when they were in mourning, so that's probably what she did. Somehow the music never bothered me (but, 70s and 80s kid, so maybe that's it). I did know Rutger Hauer for playing bad guys at first, so him being a good guy was a cool fakeout. Thank you for the reaction!
More early Rutger Hauer would be another medieval setting in Flesh + Blood; and action thriller Nighthawks opposite Sylvester Stallone. And of course the drama Escape from Sobibor.
Oh, I'm sad you talked over the point of Navarre's telling Philippe that wolves and hawks mate for life, that (paraphrasing): "The Bishop didn't even leave us that."
For the hair, one of my favorite tiny moments is when Navarre says, almost in wonder: "You cut your hair." In story logic would be that a young woman traveling at night would be better off with short hair both because otherwise half the night might be spent in getting it out of the way, and also because, with short hair, she could be momentarily be taken for a boy, which is much safer.
Great reaction Christina! 😊I never saw this movie. Looks good. You mentioned labyrinth haha I remember that movie as a kid too. Yes Richard Donner did Superman, he's known especially for Superman II with the donner cut alot too.😃
Thanks! You should definitely watch the whole movie. Labyrinth, Dark Crystal, and NeverEnding Story pretty much sum up my entire childhood. I am so glad I finally saw this gem!
Hello Christina, my favorite Matthew Broderick movie is" Max Dugan Returns ", a semi-baseball movie. My favorite Michelle Pfeifer movie is " The Fabulous Baker Boys ". My favorite Rutger Hauer movie was " Blind Fury " or " Past Midnight (1991) ". A house in my neighborhood was a set for " Blind Fury ". For three days on my way to work, I would see activity there. The closest I have ever been to " Hollywood ".
So impressed with your perspicacity and taste: music bad, Broderick cast as fantasy-Ferris Bueller (spot on), Broderick's European (British-ish) accent inconsistent (better than Keanu Reeves in "Bram Stoker's Dracula," but spotty). Long comment short, it's nice to see a first-time reactor with taste and discretion. Plus you get the same cultural references I do, and that's always appreciated.
Imperious was played by the one and only Leo McKern. Primarily a stage actor, he did grace us with a wonderful performance opposite Paul Scofield in "Man for All Seasons" (which also features a young John Hurt in an early role); and stole my mother's heart as the eternal curmudgeonly brilliant Rumpole of the Bailey: th-cam.com/video/OCaF0ULJX5E/w-d-xo.html
I don't think Mannheim Steamroller did this soundtrack. They would have been a huge improvement. Alan Parsons did this music and while I like a lot of his music, it was very out of place and in your face in Ladyhawke.
This is one of my favorites. I don't think it did well in the box office but it also didn't bomb. In my opinion, the biggest flaw with this movie is the music. It's too much in-your-face (or ears) and it's not well suited for th genre. It either needed to be more muted to the background or more period-appropriate, or both, because as it is, it's very loud and out of place. But I like the cast, the acting, and the writing, and I've always been a fan of Rutger Hauer. Check him out in: Blind Fury (comedy( Nighthawks (crime drama - this dude loves hawks...) The Hitcher (psychological thriller) And of course this movie and Bladerunner which you've seen already.
Yes I am definitely interested in more Hauer movies! I agree about the music although the music itself is not bad, but rather just took some getting used to the context in which it was used. I love 80s pop or 70s disco or whatever! I also love a good cinematic orchestral track. It's very conflicting, this soundtrack!
Oh not the music nonsense again. I've no idea why you (and others) would be surprised by this. Is it an unwritten rule that fantasy movies have "classical" music. Most (all?) of the surprised peeps with this have probably only watched Lotr... I saw this movie in the 80s and no one had a problem. But, I also listen to music now and there's lot's of great music I would have in a fantasy movie. That aside, excelletn moive. Have always loved it.
I haven’t seen this movie in years. Still very charming. But they could have just as easily used period correct costumes and music and it would have been even better.
I saw this movie when I was around 11, and LOVED it :> Local video store had it on playing and was intrigued and had to watch it :> Then rented it a little while later.
The music is modeled after the sound for ELO and no matter if you like them or not it is pretty much awful in this movie.I saw it at movies and then I did not react, but now....
Like you, I find the music jarring (and cheesy and mood-breaking). Only, unlike you, I don't have to worry about offending uber-fans who think "Ladyhawke" can do no wrong. I flat-out love this film-- and I even liked some Alan Parsons songs, back in the day -- but I've always thought a different soundtrack could have improved this movie.
I disagree. I think using Alan Parsons music made it more unique and separated it from other movies of this type of genre. It was also around that time that movies were using this type of sound in their movies. If I recall correctly, Firestarter used the music of Tangerine Dream rather than going with the typical Hollywood music. It may sound more out of place as the movie does come across as a bit dated. Fortunately, the story and acting helped make it a great film, and as I said, the music is so different for this type of movie that it makes it even more interesting.
@@DavidRox71 -- You've gone a long way toward convincing me. There are so many things that go into making a film -- so many variables (acting, script, cinematography, stunts/battle choreography, music, editing, special effects, character/creature/costume design, etc.). There's an argument to be made that every single element that makes a film more memorable/unique/compelling is a triumph. Does the soundtrack in this film stand out? Yes. But that doesn't necessarily make it bad. Your reply also made me think of Ridley Scott's "Legend" and David Lynch's "Dune" (which I prefer to the extra-textual/barely literate Villeneuve version, believe it or not -- particularly the Spicediver fan-edit). And then there's the Queen soundtrack to "Flash Gordon" -- how fun is that! Looking back, I'm glad that these kinds of musical/soundtrack chances were taken during this period of filmmaking. It's entirely possible that "Ladyhawke" is perfect as is. That a John Williams score wouldn't have improved it in the least.
I do recall reading that Donner was on an Alan Parsons Project kick at the time he was doing this movie, and adamantly insisted on incorporating that vibe into the soundtrack. A producer on the film was apparently aiming for Jerry Goldsmith before caving to Donner.
you seem disgusted about 1985, were you even born then? not I am guessing..80's had some of the best music and the visuals, it was pretty good considering the time, have you seen star wars or the aliens, they were much earlier are you disgusted by those visulas as well ??? ...byw ,it's a beautiful medevil fantasy story
Gonna help you miss. Raised on a real story. With a bit of magic cause 1530 peopme thelugjt every tbings were magic... but a French story. Im a Dane love history and the music is a bit woerd ots Alan parsons project. I'm educated
Great movie. Terrible soundtrack. I would've liked to have heard a soundtrack composed for and played on period instruments. It really is a fun, well-cast, well-written movie... but with a terrible soundtrack.
There aren't many reactions to this movie, which is a shame since it's one of my favorites! Thank you for watching it, it was a real delight!
"I fully expect to meet you at the Pearly Gates, little thief, and don't you dare disappoint me."
"I'll meet you there, Father... even if I have to pick the lock."
Fun Fact: Curtis Armstrong auditioned for the role of Philippe Gaston (Matthew Broderick).
Horse Wangler Fact: Captain Etienne Navarre (Rutger Hauer) rides a Friesian stallion that originated in The Netherlands, Rutger Hauer's native country. The breed was popular among medieval knights. The 19-year-old stallion Othello was the most prominently used horse.
Stunt SNAFU Fact: In one scene, Captain Etienne Navarre (Rutger Hauer) tells Philippe Gaston to ride his horse to Imperius' (Leo McKern) castle and slaps the horse's rear to make it ride. However, the first time the scene was filmed, Hauer slapped the horse too hard and it took off over the hill and off into the horizon. The horse was too powerful for Matthew Broderick to stop, so all everyone could do was sit and wait for him to come back.
Hawk Wangler Fact: Spike II, the hawk featured in this movie, worked in the Universal Bird Show until 2000, when she was transferred to the National Audubon Society and became an Audubon Ambassador until she died in May 2007. Another hawk was used for flying scenes, and another to sit on Rutger Hauer's arm. One enjoyed Hauer's company so much it would ruffle its feathers when seated on his arm, making it look more like a chicken.
Oh I could see Armstrong in this role but that would have been a very different movie. lol
It truly was a beautiful horse.
I think having a chicken in the movie instead of a hawk would also have been quite a different movie. ;)
Hi, Gator5, lovely to see you here, as always! And giving gifts of info about one of our family's favorite movies.
You are both welcome! 😀
Go in Peace and Walk with God. 😎 👍
I didn't recognize how humorous this movie was throughout its entirety
You brought so much awareness that I couldn't see before... oh geese it is funny.
I think that is Richard Donner touch for sure. And also Matthew Broderick! But I loved how serious it got as well :)
2 years befofe this Matthew Broderick had a hit with Wargames, which also starred the actor playing the Bishop.
Thanks for the suggestion! I have not see that entire movie.
I saw this when I was young, great movie. Thanks for reacting to it! ❤️
My pleasure! So glad it was a Patreon request!!!
This is a favorite of mine! It is amazing! My Grandson would love this One!
Oh there is a whole generation that needs to see this movie.
My biggest HOORAY to finally seeing another watchable reaction on this channel. I recommended this back when your channel began and mever expected to actually see it any time soon. Thank you to the patreon person or poll or whatever made this happen.
Hooray!
im so happy you’re reviewing/reacting to this movie! thank you! ❤
Phillipe's by-play with the Almighty is a highlight of this movie for me!
I know!!!!!!!!
This might be a cheesy 80s movie but I was 14 when I saw this and I don't care what anyone else thinks. I will always love this movie. It is forever part of my childhood. (GREAT CAST!!!!!) ❤
Yes! It is worth the love :)
I do't think it's a chessy movie; it's a damn sight better than half the other motvies came out in the 80s (and better written/acted too)
michelle pfeiffer at her finest is never cheesy
They lied about the sword being lost in the lake. It was a desperate move to make Navarre change his mind about killing the Bishop.
"Walk, on the left side!" 😂😂😂
Gods I love this movie. Actually, this movie introduced me to Matthew Broderick. Surprisingly, there's only a handful of movies with him that I've enjoyed.
Thank you for doing this one. First time watcher here, and I loved your reaction. This movie does not get enough love from reactors, which is sad. I saw it in theaters when it came out, and you are right - the clichés are there now, but I don't know if I was smart enough back then to realize it. I think we were all pretty naïve, and didn't expect as much from our movies as we do now. The music is...home, I guess. It feels good to me in this movie, and it only goes really hard when there is action on the screen, and when the moments are quieter, the music just is kind of there in the background and gets more soft with an organic feel. The Ferris Bueller bits absolutely put the movie over the top, and I don't think it ever pulls the watcher out of the setting. The cinematography is absolutely gorgeous, and even when people don't like the movie, this is what they say the movie nailed. Shiny swords, the armor, all of it is just a little weird, but if you let it the story just pulls you in. I like your word for it - Enchanting. Thank you again.
Love the movie and all the actors in this.
So glad you reacted to this movie…you never see it on here. Definitely a hidden gem. Found your channel through Return to Me (one of my favorites). New sub ☺️
Yay! I have some patrons over on Patreon that have really been requesting some excellent movies for reactions :)
Let’s go back to a mythical time when all of these actors were at the same point in their careers where they could appear together in a movie.
Classic gem, was a very fun watch
Thanks! I agree, classic gem.
Final post, I love how, at the end, she approaches Navarre like he is the Wolf. Hands out, slowly, and gently, with a bit of fear.
Following that, she drops the jesses (tethers that are used for birds of prey that are typically attached to the legs) into the Bishop's hands.
12:23 you are correct. Character way Roy. Batty. Tears in the rain sceen made me cry. Sorry missus identic memory i can name most the movies I've scene wierd that way I even can recite dialouge.
Thank you.
Ladyhawke was filmed in Italy, using a number of locations, some near the real-world L'Aquila, where the movie is set. The town of Castell'Arquato and the castle of Torrechiara, both in the Emilia-Romagna.
Thanks! I was thinking Italy when I saw so many Italian names in the ending credits. Those locations were amazing!!
I always forget that Cezar, the wolf hunter, is played by Alfred Molina. And it's also fun that Matthew Broderick and John Wood (the bishop) starred in Wargames together before this.
If you would like a suggestion for another great, 80's film but more of a sci-fi genre...I'd suggest "Alien Nation" (1988) with James Caan and Mandy Patinkin (Inigo in The Princess Bride).
YAY!!! more people need to do this movie it's one of my favorites.
It is an absolute fave of several! I see why!
Music was by Alan Parsons Project.
You're the first movie reactor I've seen to react to this movie . I've tried getting other reactors to do this movie , but with no luck . It's cool that you reacted to this .
finally someone reacting to this awesome movie...i was like 7 when this came out...not once i thought or ever hear someone say that theme song sounded like aerobic music...lol...this movie makes me cry
Thank you so much for this. I've never seen anyone react to this movie before, but it is one of my all time favorites. It was the movie my wife and I watched on our first date, and many, many times in the years that followed. We were married for over 32 years, and I lost her almost 5 years ago to cancer. This is the first time I've "watched" it since then.
My sympathies, @ Tallenn. My wife and I learned we both already loved Ladyhawke during our first conversation, a good 30 + years ago. I've been obsessed with hawks and falcons since I was 11 and her favorite animal was the wolf.
I’ve always enjoyed this one, since 16yo me saw it in the theater. Glad you enjoyed it too.
Another fantasy movie from this era you might like is Dragonslayer (1981).
I've seen Dragonslayer before, but it was as a child and only remember a few scenes. It could be considered for a future watching!
Go back three years to 1982. "Chariots of Fire" did something similar with its own soundtrack: using electronics, when "period" was expected. It topped the charts, and nobody, I mean NOBODY, talks smack about THAT.
27:07: The visual may be "limited" but they make the most of it, all with the poetry of the light, the camera work, and the cooperation of the viewer to enter into the enchantment.
Ladyhawke was released in 1985, one year before Ferris Bueller's Day Off did. The way Phillipe talks to God is very similar to Bueller's fourth wall breaking banter, both characters played by Matthew Broderick. John Hughes had Broderick in mind when he wrote FBDO's screenplay in 1985. I can't help but assume that Broderick's performance in Ladyhawke very probably inspired how Hughes wrote FBDO.
Glad you are reacting to this. Loved it when it came out. Rutgers hauer is the GOAT. Starred in original Bladerunner. I love the horse.
The costumes and weapons aren't period accurate, but the general attitudes and beliefs are actually surprisingly authentic.
The music was because of Richard Donner, it was done by Jefferson Airplane, he and his then wife fell in love listening to the band and so he got them to score the music for the movie. Granted the music's kind of camp but the movie is fantastic
You forgot the delicious Rutger Hauer as Navarre.
When this movie came out there was a lot of press about the soundtrack. The composer wanted to mix Medieval styling with soaring strings and synth to create an innovative sound that was both classical and modern. There were many people who hated it and still hate it. But I LOVED it. Now days some of the musicality are still seen in many scores. (Hans Zimmer.....etc. who combine orchestra with modern sounds.) I remember how they covered it as one of the first to use synth as a base to build on. I need to go to Amazon and purchase it since along the way I lost my vinyl,
Thus was based on poem written in the 12th century.
Love this movie. But yes, the music is something people either love or hate.
Yep, a big divide!
I like the music. I think it fits this film perfectly. Never understood why some people think fantasy movies should have "classical" music.
This was one of the VERY few movies where Rutger Hauer plays an unambiguous hero. He usually plays villains, or anti-heroes.
There were two big criticisms of the movie: The soundtrack (though the orchestral score is beautiful) and Matthew Broderick, who is said to be very out of place. However I think that's the point: Philippe is a common thief of a very mundane Medieval setting who gets swept up in a fantastical adventure involving curses and magic. He's just as out of place in the story as Broderick himself.
Michelle Pfeifer was GORGEOUS.
Navarre's sword is about 200-300 years too advanced for the setting.
I love Imperious. He inspired a character in my own novels.
It should be noted you should never yank an arrow out like that. Even in the Middle Ages they knew better, and used specialized tools for the job.
Cesar is played by a VERY YOUNG Alfred Molina.
A sword that size would only weigh about 6-8 pounds. They were not nearly as heavy as pop culture has made them look.
I love the juxtaposition of Navarre in black and Marquet in white, reversing the classic good color/evil color scheme.
The eclipse that's the key to breaking the curse should have been impossible because the phase of the moon was wrong. The night before the finale, the moon is full. However an eclipse can only occur during a new moon, which wouldn't occur until about 14 days after a full moon. So even if anyone in the setting would have thought about an eclipse, they STILL wouldn't have believed Imperious because the phases of the moon were wrong. In fact, people in the Middle Ages absolutely knew how to calculate when an eclipse occurred, as well as how they happened, so yet again, even if he understood the riddle, Navarre (an educated man) likely would have still thought Imperious was nuts because there wasn't supposed to be one. This strongly suggests that the eclipse itself may have been divine intervention to help break the curse.
The final duel between Navarre and Marquet is IMO one of the best sword fights committed to film.
The sword was never lost, they just said it was to try to get Navarre to listen to them.
I LOVE the way Isabeau drops the jesses and hood she wore as a hawk at the Bishop's feet, and the look of utter hatred on her face when she does so. Stone. Cold.
The 80s may have been THE best decade for fantasy movies. There were some stinkers, sure, but Ladyhawke, Willow, Labyrinth, Conan the Barbarian, Clash of the Titans, Beastmaster, Highlander, SO many amazing fantasy films to come out of it.
5:50 "I think a lot of movies today just spell things out too obviously."
Today, the average moviegoer has an attention span just long enough for a TikTok video.
If they don't drag the audience in and tell them what is going on in that short timeframe, those same audience members pick up their phone and watch TikTok instead.
Don't take my word for it.
Hollywood has tested it many times when the occasional movie tries the 80s style of keeping the audience in the dark for the first act.
Inevitably those movies get bad reviews. "Too confusing" being the common thread.
Now they don't even try anymore.
Good moviemaking is an art that has been lost to the festering bowels of social media.
You're not wrong
Thought Mathew Broderick was a miscast ... but Rutger Hauer's best role ever.
This Movie has been my favorite since I was a teenager. I was obsessed with it. In fact it's where my User Name came from.
This is one of My favorite movies. You should watch blind fury when you get a chance, you will absolutely fall in love with Rutger. Hauer. He was also in a movie called wanted Dead or alive. That is another great one.
I feel like this is the story of my life, sometimes getting just close to a perfect relationship and having it slip through my fingers. One time in particular.
We dated for 6 months, she lived in Winnipeg, I live in Phoenix. We spent 5 or 6 hours every night talking on the phone. 2,000 miles apart and it was the closest I ever felt to anyone. Sadly it slipped through my fingers and I just couldn't figure out how to save it.
The only other time I came close was somebody. I fell in love with, the one who saved me from the sorrow from my divorce. She never knew how much I loved her because she did not feel the same way about me. But there was a moment where a really dumb guy broke up with her and she was crying on my shoulder. She said who's going to Fall in love with me when I have two kids from two different fathers. And from the bottom of my soul I was screaming you're holding him now. But I never said a word, because I never wanted to make her feel awkward. It wasn't a friend zone thing, she just didn't see me that way. I was lucky enough to have her as a friend. But she kissed me on the neck and thanked me for being there for. And I just said always.
So I cried pretty hard at the end of professor Snape.
Anyway, I'm glad you saw this, it is an extraordinary film. And in the movie lethal weapon, there's a theater scene that has the horse riding through the cathedral. It is the scene from ladyhawk. Richard Donner did lethal weapon as well as this.
I think that is why this movie is so good --- it really resonates with true to life experiences especially with heartbreak and longing. That ending scene can feel so liberating and sobering at the same time!! Thanks for sharing :)
@@okchristina thank you for the kind words. When you get to a point where you want to watch a romantic comedy that is directed by a brilliant woman, I recommend return to me. It star's mini driver and David duchovny and it was directed by Bonnie Hunt. And if you're not familiar with Bonnie Hunt, zee has a small role in the film where she's married to Jim Belushi. The man eating the donut getting yelled at by David duchovny is her husband. She wouldn't let him be in the film unless he had something in his mouth so he wouldn't ruin the take. She chose a donut.
the music ? Conducted by Andrew Powell
Performed by
The Philharmonia Orchestra, While all the tracks are written by conductor Andrew Powell, director Richard Donner wanted Alan's signature sound to be highlighted and it is here, beautifully ...
Andrew Powell composed and conducted most of the orchestral music in The Alan Parsons Project such as Fall of the House of Usher.
Of all the other movies of its type of the time, The Princess Bride was always the one that was most like this. And for me this one was almost as good and just as important.
I am glad you got the chance to watch this before the remake ruined it. It truly is an 80’s iconic movie that has been overlooked.
if you've see highlander you've seen the church scene :> As it's in the movie briefly while he was at th theater.
I haven't -- but I will certainly watch for it when I do see that movie!
@@okchristina ahhhh correction it was 1995 conspiracy theory with mel gibson:> there is a scene in a theater with it playing on the screne I think I thought highlander as it came out around the same time.
I saw this movie when it originally came out, and had to remind myself that women back then would sometimes cut their hair when they were in mourning, so that's probably what she did. Somehow the music never bothered me (but, 70s and 80s kid, so maybe that's it). I did know Rutger Hauer for playing bad guys at first, so him being a good guy was a cool fakeout.
Thank you for the reaction!
you should check Rutger Hauer out in blind fury (1989) some time.
More early Rutger Hauer would be another medieval setting in Flesh + Blood; and action thriller Nighthawks opposite Sylvester Stallone. And of course the drama Escape from Sobibor.
Oh, I'm sad you talked over the point of Navarre's telling Philippe that wolves and hawks mate for life, that (paraphrasing): "The Bishop didn't even leave us that."
For the hair, one of my favorite tiny moments is when Navarre says, almost in wonder: "You cut your hair." In story logic would be that a young woman traveling at night would be better off with short hair both because otherwise half the night might be spent in getting it out of the way, and also because, with short hair, she could be momentarily be taken for a boy, which is much safer.
Yes, the book explains it better.
Great reaction Christina! 😊I never saw this movie. Looks good. You mentioned labyrinth haha I remember that movie as a kid too. Yes Richard Donner did Superman, he's known especially for Superman II with the donner cut alot too.😃
Thanks! You should definitely watch the whole movie. Labyrinth, Dark Crystal, and NeverEnding Story pretty much sum up my entire childhood. I am so glad I finally saw this gem!
@@okchristina Nice, those are some bangers for sure.
Hello Christina, my favorite Matthew Broderick movie is" Max Dugan Returns ", a semi-baseball movie. My favorite Michelle Pfeifer movie is " The Fabulous Baker Boys ". My favorite Rutger Hauer movie was " Blind Fury " or " Past Midnight (1991) ". A house in my neighborhood was a set for " Blind Fury ". For three days on my way to work, I would see activity there. The closest I have ever been to " Hollywood ".
I love this movie - I was hoping it would be remade or turned into a limited series one day, and there are certainly rumours it's finally happening
I recently saw that apparently a re-make is in the works.
oooooo that could be really good if done well. But it would be good in a standalone sort of way and this original gem would always be beloved.
So impressed with your perspicacity and taste: music bad, Broderick cast as fantasy-Ferris Bueller (spot on), Broderick's European (British-ish) accent inconsistent (better than Keanu Reeves in "Bram Stoker's Dracula," but spotty).
Long comment short, it's nice to see a first-time reactor with taste and discretion. Plus you get the same cultural references I do, and that's always appreciated.
Imperious was played by the one and only Leo McKern. Primarily a stage actor, he did grace us with a wonderful performance opposite Paul Scofield in "Man for All Seasons" (which also features a young John Hurt in an early role); and stole my mother's heart as the eternal curmudgeonly brilliant Rumpole of the Bailey: th-cam.com/video/OCaF0ULJX5E/w-d-xo.html
I adore this movie. It's so romantic.
I love this movie so much
Great choice!
I always felt the composer got the idea for the music from Goliath's gallop. It seems to match.
I don't think Mannheim Steamroller did this soundtrack.
They would have been a huge improvement.
Alan Parsons did this music and while I like a lot of his music, it was very out of place and in your face in Ladyhawke.
MS was a pretty darn good guess ;)
Love this movie ❤
Me too!
This is one of my favorites.
I don't think it did well in the box office but it also didn't bomb.
In my opinion, the biggest flaw with this movie is the music. It's too much in-your-face (or ears) and it's not well suited for th genre. It either needed to be more muted to the background or more period-appropriate, or both, because as it is, it's very loud and out of place.
But I like the cast, the acting, and the writing, and I've always been a fan of Rutger Hauer.
Check him out in:
Blind Fury (comedy(
Nighthawks (crime drama - this dude loves hawks...)
The Hitcher (psychological thriller)
And of course this movie and Bladerunner which you've seen already.
Yes I am definitely interested in more Hauer movies! I agree about the music although the music itself is not bad, but rather just took some getting used to the context in which it was used. I love 80s pop or 70s disco or whatever! I also love a good cinematic orchestral track. It's very conflicting, this soundtrack!
It's so 80s I love it
Love. It.
Is Like
Total Eclipse of the Heart ?
Bonnie Tyler
Oh not the music nonsense again. I've no idea why you (and others) would be surprised by this. Is it an unwritten rule that fantasy movies have "classical" music. Most (all?) of the surprised peeps with this have probably only watched Lotr...
I saw this movie in the 80s and no one had a problem. But, I also listen to music now and there's lot's of great music I would have in a fantasy movie.
That aside, excelletn moive. Have always loved it.
Great movie. I just hope they remaster it and change the soundtrack.
Yeah, it could use some love with the visuals. I think it might cause some fan friction if they changed the soundtrack!
I haven’t seen this movie in years. Still very charming. But they could have just as easily used period correct costumes and music and it would have been even better.
Oh I didn't realize the costuming was off!
The sound track is so weird... but I love the script/story.
I saw this movie when I was around 11, and LOVED it :> Local video store had it on playing and was intrigued and had to watch it :> Then rented it a little while later.
Oh this would've been a great rental. I remember it being on HBO. Glad I finally got to see it!!
The music is modeled after the sound for ELO and no matter if you like them or not it is pretty much awful in this movie.I saw it at movies and then I did not react, but now....
Like you, I find the music jarring (and cheesy and mood-breaking). Only, unlike you, I don't have to worry about offending uber-fans who think "Ladyhawke" can do no wrong. I flat-out love this film-- and I even liked some Alan Parsons songs, back in the day -- but I've always thought a different soundtrack could have improved this movie.
I disagree. I think using Alan Parsons music made it more unique and separated it from other movies of this type of genre. It was also around that time that movies were using this type of sound in their movies. If I recall correctly, Firestarter used the music of Tangerine Dream rather than going with the typical Hollywood music. It may sound more out of place as the movie does come across as a bit dated. Fortunately, the story and acting helped make it a great film, and as I said, the music is so different for this type of movie that it makes it even more interesting.
@@DavidRox71 -- You've gone a long way toward convincing me. There are so many things that go into making a film -- so many variables (acting, script, cinematography, stunts/battle choreography, music, editing, special effects, character/creature/costume design, etc.). There's an argument to be made that every single element that makes a film more memorable/unique/compelling is a triumph. Does the soundtrack in this film stand out? Yes. But that doesn't necessarily make it bad. Your reply also made me think of Ridley Scott's "Legend" and David Lynch's "Dune" (which I prefer to the extra-textual/barely literate Villeneuve version, believe it or not -- particularly the Spicediver fan-edit). And then there's the Queen soundtrack to "Flash Gordon" -- how fun is that! Looking back, I'm glad that these kinds of musical/soundtrack chances were taken during this period of filmmaking. It's entirely possible that "Ladyhawke" is perfect as is. That a John Williams score wouldn't have improved it in the least.
I do recall reading that Donner was on an Alan Parsons Project kick at the time he was doing this movie, and adamantly insisted on incorporating that vibe into the soundtrack. A producer on the film was apparently aiming for Jerry Goldsmith before caving to Donner.
just wood on fire...
👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻⚡🥃
you seem disgusted about 1985, were you even born then? not I am guessing..80's had some of the best music and the visuals, it was pretty good considering the time, have you seen star wars or the aliens, they were much earlier are you disgusted by those visulas as well ??? ...byw ,it's a beautiful medevil fantasy story
Gonna help you miss. Raised on a real story. With a bit of magic cause 1530 peopme thelugjt every tbings were magic... but a French story. Im a Dane love history and the music is a bit woerd ots Alan parsons project. I'm educated
Great movie. Awful soundtrack.
Terrific soundtrack! You weirdos are lame.
There is great division on the opinion of the soundtrack!! I certainly can see both sides!
Fantasy? You want fantasy? It looks like you haven't reacted to Lord of the Rings. So .....
Great movie. Terrible soundtrack. I would've liked to have heard a soundtrack composed for and played on period instruments. It really is a fun, well-cast, well-written movie... but with a terrible soundtrack.