It's a great piece of visual filmmaking but turned in to infantilism by Monty Pythons Holy Grail. "Strange women lying in ponds distributing swords is no basis for a system of government. Supreme executive power derives from a mandate from the masses, not from some farcical aquatic ceremony...... I mean, if I went 'round saying I was an emperor just because some moistened bint had lobbed a scimitar at me, they'd put me away!"
The movie got mixed reviews on its release, but personally I think it's the definitive Arthur flick. The knights are more like savage apes in clunky, muddy armor - which I found refreshing, and amusing, as it reflected human barbarism of the dark ages so well. But maybe best of all is that awesome haunting Wagner soundtrack. That's what nails the whole thing for me.
@@williamrockwell9705 The story has been remade several times since Excalibur, with generally lesser results. And yeah, that sort of thing is not fashionable at the moment, but it might be again in five or ten years.
The only scene in anything that ever came close was Breeane of Tarth being Knighted in Game of Thrones but I still think this scene is the best hands down. "In the name of God, Saint Michael and Saint George, I give you the right to bear arms and the power to mete justice!"
The scenes with sir Percival are my favorites. When Boromir says "I would have followed you, my brother... my captain... my king. " in Fellowship of the Ring, I flashed back to Sir Percy reminding Arthur's image who he is... Grail Figure: What is the secret of the Grail? Who does it serve? Perceval: You, my lord. Grail Figure: Who am I? Perceval: You are my lord and king. You are Arthur. Grail Figure: Have you found the secret that I have lost? Perceval: Yes. You and the land are one.
Nicol Williamson's performance is the glue that holds this movie together. After watching Excalibur countless times on cable movie channels, I know by heart every word Merlin uttered. "Yes! THAT'S It!"
Ssme here man.. "Betrayals always where you least expect it. *Always..*" Lol.. I even remember the words of making he foolishly gave to Morgana.. "Anaal Natraach Uthvas Bethud Doch y'ell Yen Vey!" Hold on, it's getting rather smoggy in here all of a sudden..
When I recommend Excalibur to someone who hasn't watched it before, I tell them: "This movie is a visceral and literal representation of a medieval legend. As you watch it, don't think that the acting and the dialog are needlessly over-the-top, as if the actors and the director were amateurs. The acting and the dialog were meant to be what is presented here. It's like Wagnerian opera, but without the singing. It's legend come to life, in a movie."
It's amazing how Boorman was able to adapt the whole sweep of the Arthurian legend from Mallory's Le Morte d'Arthur into a film of under three hours. As a lover of all things Arthurian, I really appreciate how he stuck to the original source material while simultaneously making it his own.
Actually, never noticed her much in this movie. Other than her being the antagonist. It was Cherie Lunghi who caught my eye. As far as EXCALIBUR actresses.
I was disappointed seeing Emerald Forest after waiting this long (bought it couple of years ago) maybe i need to watch it one more time before my final verdict though..
@@kungfew1396 i just need some good acting to pull me into a Film, even low budget, i know all about it coz i watch documentaries a lot but i suppose overall i was expecting too much, perhaps. Always better to approach things with low expectations
no way in hell this masterpiece will ever be topped when it comes to King Arthur. "Come father, let us embrace at last" absolutely killer line and in my top 3 movie quotes of all time easily.
@@fistimusmaximus6576 Could you believe they wanted to make a remake of this movie and have Guy Ritchie do it? After his failure with Legend of the Sword, I'm glad Hollywood dropped the idea
@@sadlobster1 no I cant, every remake in modern times butchers the film they base it on. Guess we all dodged another classic getting the "updated with modern views".
Yeah, realistic for the 15th century, not so much for the early 5th century when the story is supposed to take place. I don't care though as this movie was not about historical accuracy, it is otherworldly, inhabiting its own place and time.
@@tedwojtasik8781 the story goes throughout centuries. For example the sword is pre christian era, when they search for holy grail, its symbolic to Christianity arrival and holy crusade happened.
Oh yeah, if anything Arthur was based on a Celtic (Proto Celtic?) hero legend.. Definitely not wearing mid-late medieval armour then but it's in its own World like you say. I wouldn't change a thing, its perfect.
I saw this movie as a child in the theater and it still moves me to the soul of my very being today. Majestic, epic, gritty, human and transcendent, including the music by the incomparable Richard Wagner. Truly the greatest rendering of Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table ever brought to the silver screen.
No special effects needed. Grounded in gritty, muddy reality. I'm a native English speaker and even I found their accents other worldly. Subsequent Arthur movies never topped this masterpiece.
I love the trick of shining coloured light at a reflective object as a way of suggesting it is producing that light. I've even describe things that way in role-play games - it shines as if reflecting light and yet there is nothing close by to provide that light - it simply is. Much more effective than the post-production glow effect.
I can't begin to describe what Excalibur means to me. It captured my imagination as a child, and I've loved it with all my heart ever since. It's not the only movie that makes me feel this way, but it left an impression that's been with me all my life.
She & Liam Neesom met & fell in love during filming. John Boorman has her characters gold breastplate from the movie over a fireplace in his home in Ireland. So enamored with her figure.
Its so unusual to bring anything like this together , every character lighting , script , sex , magic , a perfect alchemy, utterly transcendental, No cgi , lighting , voices , sound , Incredible
Max Von Sydow was supposed to play Merlin. But was otherwise engaged. I can see that, as he & Williamson are the same type. Williamson, however, will go down in cinematic history.
@@stefanfilipovits21 Me too. I wonder if Borman had THE EXORCIST in mind or Sydow's stage work or just his presence. And would Sydow have shaved his head? Did he for FLASH GORDON?
When Lancelot returns in the middle of the battle, righteously and brutally smiting, many people in the theater rose from their seats and let out a yelp. Truly one of the most heroic and stirring returns.
I remember this movie when I was a kid. It was on a VHS tape with “Blade Runner”. (This was in the mid-80’s) I still think it’s a major injustice that Nigel Terry and Nicol Williamson were never made into super-stars!
From what I have heard - Nicol WIlliamson preferred live stage performance over other mediums , -he did not want to be known as a "movie star". He did alot of TV shows in Britain though.
One of my top 5 favorite films of all time. I was totally blown away the first time I saw it. Wagner adds so much grandeur and the sets are not of this world.
I just watched my Excalibur blu ray last weekend. I was 13 when this movie came out, and it has stuck with me ever since. I usually watch it once or twice a year, such a masterpiece.
I watched this movie so many times I could recite the Charm of Making….still can . Even for all its flaws, there hasn’t been another King Arthur project to even come close to matching the epic-ness of this film !
I show this film to my high school seniors every year for the past 20 years or so...they have learned to love it because I do. It's the film I've watched more than any other over the years.
Ive seen this movie so many times from being a kid to a teenager and now as an adult and ive never got tired rewatching this classic film. Only thing I wished on this movie back in the day is that I wish the ass whoping fights where longer. As what I told my friends. All hail Excalibro! The most awesome movie you will ever see
@@AdrianColley after watching this i went and found a decent 1080 version mate... im Guessing a 4k version might show a lot of graininess,,,, but we can live in hope ;-)
I love this movie so much. So many amazing scenes. I like to rewatch certain scenes from time to time, such as Uriens knighting Arthur, Arthur drinking from the grail, and Arthur reuniting with Guinevere.
I absolutely love this movie! I watch it periodically over the years and it seems new each time. It says “fantasy”. It says “legend”. It is a rare movie that has all aspects of film making come together in perfect synchronicity. Acting is superb, music is sublime, storyline is enthralling, costumes are impeccable, lighting is perfect and direction pulls it all together to set an unprecedented storyline! There are no other versions told in film or on stage that even come close. It’s like everyone knows the importance of each aspect of film making, but “Excalibur” is one of the very rare films that actually has all aspects be complimentary of each other in equal measure. This film should be studied in every film school for all time. Right up there with “Godfather”
LoL - I was about 7 and asked my mum to rent me "The Sword in the Stone" on video, she came with with "Excalibur" and I loved it. Amazing what talent can do with a small budget. These days Disney would probably throw $150mill at it and it would bomb.
Excalibur will always be a special fantasy, knights and magic movie. The music was amazing, the casting spot on, and the fact that fantasy was taken seriously was terrific.
My favorite movie of all time. I can quote it almost word for word! "Behold! The sword of power! Forged when the world was one, and bird and beast and flower were one with man!" "Looking at the cake is like looking at the future! Until you've tasted it, what do you really know? (Arthur bites the cake) "Too late!"
Charley Boorman was Johns's son and also the star of the 80's film, The Emerald Forest. Boorman's Excalibur was, is and always will be one of my all time epic faves if not my fav of all.
The wisdom in this film is often overlooked. The idea that good can't exist without evil, Truth being the greatest quality of knighthood (humans) and the fact that there's always something cleverer than yourself. Truly magnificent.
All that info on the film, yet you failed to mention that the film is very strongly based on the 15th-century Arthurian romance, "Le Morte d'Arthur", by Sir Thomas Malory.
@@odysseusrex5908 Bad ones. Malory took elements from various folk tales originating in Brittany and England (with major input from Sir Geoffrey of Monmouth's writings over 300 years earlier), and gathered them together into a cohesive whole. For example, Lancelot of the Lake wasn't originally the same Lancelot that betrays the king.
@@philgreen8101 Yes, all Arthurian romance ultimately traces back to Geoffrey. Geoffrey probably based his Arthur on the historical 5th century British leader known as Riothamus. There is no identifiable connection between Riothamus and the Arthur of the Welsh Matter.
I feel robbed now knowing there could have been a 3 hour version. I'd watch that in a heartbeat! Still one of my favorite movies ever. The scene where Arthur and Merlyn part still gets to me and reminds me of Socrates drinking the hemlock with no problem when Merlyn says: "There are other worlds. This one is done with me." Then Arthur hugs him and walks away and Merlyn sighs and simply says: "That's it." Just so much emotion, feeling and depth from those simple two words then then any long, tearful, overly dramatic speech. Life's work complete. No regrets. Time to go. Such an underrated scene.
I’m kind of torn on that. While I think it would be great to see that 3 hour directors cut, the version we got is tight & precise, telling the story to perfection. Hard call…
@@thomashauguel6811 I will admit that is a great point. The pacing is amazing. Maybe a special edition with all the extra scenes as bonus/deleted scenes.
I loved "Excalibur" when it was first released, in my teen years. It began the 1980s trend of sword and fantasy that gave us Arnold as Conan, and so many more, none of which I cared for at all. When Jackson's "Lord of the Rings" trilogy ended with "The Return of the King", with its emphasis on the king's special sword and how it conveys its unearthly power to one special man, my friends lauded this huge film and especially its use of music. They scoffed when I stated my preference for the more concise "Excalibur", which they had never seen. I told one friend of the latter's use of operatic music, of its visual flair, all for the same theme as the bigger budget Jackson film. He laughed at me, so I bought him the DVD of "Excalibur". A year later I overheard him tell the same group of friends how much he preferred the power and music and look of "Excalibur". I congratulated him for his change of heart, and he denied ever thinking the bigger film superior. Boorman's movie had so completely won him over that his memory of his previous stance was wiped clean!
I saw and reeeeeally enjoyed The Green Knight a week or so ago. While I think The Green Knight is probably the best made and best looking Arthurian movie, Excalibur still stands as the best Arthurian movie overall. It distilled an entire mythos into a really digestible, beautiful, and memorable King Arthur film. Between the costumes, stellar performances, and the Wagner score it’s not hard to see why Excalibur still resonates.
That looks really good. Since I was a kid & saw Sword in the Stone I've loved all Arthurian related legend movies. Even the Clive Owen one. Loved reading Once & Future King in HS.
I saw this movie when it came out and loved it. It wasn't until Lord of the Rings that another fantasy movie worked so well on so many levels. There is no CG, and most of the effects are practical or in camera. Yet it tells such a good story with such believable and relatable characters that it still holds up well, forty years later.
Truly, truly a MAGNIFICENT movie‼️ This is what the medium of movie making was meant for. I remember when I was in jr. high in literary history class the teacher tried explaining the story of Camelot to us and we didn’t take it seriously. Then she busted out with a VHS copy of Excalibur and the room went silent for the next 2 hours. Everyone was engulfed in it (and we’re talking about smart ass teenagers). The scene when Arthur rides to Ofortuna gets you pumped up like no other movie, GLORIOUS‼️ I always have time for this movie.
Excalibur is one of my all time favorite movies! Boorman's rendition of the Arthur Legend and Camelot is by far the best interpretation of the story of the Once and Future King. My praise and thanks.
No other Arthurian movie comes close. The epic score, the actors, brutal battles, gritty props and armors as noted in the review likewise the fairly big brain metaphors vs other efforts.. I've just never taken to any other adaptation.. So many memorable moments and Wagner used so well! And anyone who disagrees? Take them to the tree!!
Definitely the gold standard in Arthurian legend movies. Not a scene wasted, simple, practical effects and a score that does an excellent job and conveying the tone of the scenes. Some of the acting is a bit over the top, but overall the cast embodies their characters to perfection. I think my favorite line has to be from Merlin when he’s in King Arthur’s dream: “A dream to some…A NIGHTMARE TO OTHERS!” Totally badass!
I loved the movie first time I saw it and despite being labeled as a "fantasy, action" movie, there is a bit of sad "melancholy" aspect of it that deeply moved me. I cannot believe that I saw the movie over 40 years ago. How fast time flies!!!!
This movie came along at just the right time & at just the place in my life. My elementary school was built in 1913 & looked like an old castle. Old interior. Our imaginations ran wild.
Thanks for this video, and all the comments which give me a fresh perspective! I actually don't like this movie at all, and have only previously met people who consider it a bit of a joke. However, I now appreciate that there is a substantial fandom for this film, and a lot of depth which I had personally never considered.
I remember as a kid watching this, I had got up to switch channels as this started, and I stood there still with my finger on the button to change channel for the whole film. I was transfixed. It’s a beautiful film.
One of my favorite movies of all times. Definitely best Arthurian movie ever. Anyone can put this movie on at any time, and I will sit and watch. Every time. Everything is just so great about this movie. I could type for hours about how much I love this!
I watched this in the theater when it debuted. I fell in love...with the photography, the story, the dialog, the cast, the music, and of course the director. It’s not a perfect film but it’s a perfect film viewing experience and my favorite film.
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The best king Arthur bar none . This will never be topped
It's a great piece of visual filmmaking but turned in to infantilism by Monty Pythons Holy Grail.
"Strange women lying in ponds distributing swords is no basis for a system of government. Supreme executive power derives from a mandate from the masses, not from some farcical aquatic ceremony...... I mean, if I went 'round saying I was an emperor just because some moistened bint had lobbed a scimitar at me, they'd put me away!"
Agreed!
@@Fiddling_while_Rome_burns thank you for describing the British Monarchy
@@Fiddling_while_Rome_burns Monty Python's version came out years earlier; 1975 I believe.
The movie got mixed reviews on its release, but personally I think it's the definitive Arthur flick. The knights are more like savage apes in clunky, muddy armor - which I found refreshing, and amusing, as it reflected human barbarism of the dark ages so well. But maybe best of all is that awesome haunting Wagner soundtrack. That's what nails the whole thing for me.
This is definitely the best version of the Arthurian legend made so far.
best version ever made... not so far.
It is not as if it the story will be remade again.
There is simply no audience for the story in the new world.
@@williamrockwell9705 The story has been remade several times since Excalibur, with generally lesser results. And yeah, that sort of thing is not fashionable at the moment, but it might be again in five or ten years.
@@Pengalen Sigh.. the future demographics ensure it will be made again, non-Whites simply don't want to hear or see anything about White culture.
Absolutely without a doubt.
I was a kid when saw this when it was released and decades later, it's still as awesome and breathtaking.
Yeah I was young when I saw this and it totally blew me away. A total all and out classic.
I'm still shocked my parents took me to see this when I was so young. The kind of sex and violence this movie had was much more serious in 1981.
Dittos and 69th like :D
I was absolutely mesmerized watching this as a teenager.
True! I feel the same about this movie, a timeless movie
The scene where Arthur is knighted in the river. I believe is one of the most uplifting and moving scene ever put to film
Man, he took a SUPER risk doing that!. And in the middle of BATTLE!!
Tremendous scene. Great to see how Uryens goes on to become one of his most faithful knights throughout the film and never waivers in that allegiance.
The only scene in anything that ever came close was Breeane of Tarth being Knighted in Game of Thrones but I still think this scene is the best hands down.
"In the name of God, Saint Michael and Saint George, I give you the right to bear arms and the power to mete justice!"
Yes it gives me chills every time I watch that scene
The scenes with sir Percival are my favorites. When Boromir says "I would have followed you, my brother... my captain... my king. " in Fellowship of the Ring, I flashed back to Sir Percy reminding Arthur's image who he is...
Grail Figure: What is the secret of the Grail? Who does it serve?
Perceval: You, my lord.
Grail Figure: Who am I?
Perceval: You are my lord and king. You are Arthur.
Grail Figure: Have you found the secret that I have lost?
Perceval: Yes. You and the land are one.
Nicol Williamson's performance is the glue that holds this movie together. After watching Excalibur countless times on cable movie channels, I know by heart every word Merlin uttered.
"Yes! THAT'S It!"
Ssme here man.. "Betrayals always where you least expect it. *Always..*"
Lol.. I even remember the words of making he foolishly gave to Morgana..
"Anaal Natraach Uthvas Bethud Doch y'ell Yen Vey!"
Hold on, it's getting rather smoggy in here all of a sudden..
When I recommend Excalibur to someone who hasn't watched it before, I tell them: "This movie is a visceral and literal representation of a medieval legend. As you watch it, don't think that the acting and the dialog are needlessly over-the-top, as if the actors and the director were amateurs. The acting and the dialog were meant to be what is presented here. It's like Wagnerian opera, but without the singing. It's legend come to life, in a movie."
It's amazing how Boorman was able to adapt the whole sweep of the Arthurian legend from Mallory's Le Morte d'Arthur into a film of under three hours. As a lover of all things Arthurian, I really appreciate how he stuck to the original source material while simultaneously making it his own.
So many iconic moments in this movie ....and Nicol Williamson was the greatest Merlin ever .
"A dream to some. A NIGHTMARE to others!"
Best…line…ever!
I have left instructions that at least one person at my funeral must ask the question, 'Are YOU a Dream???'.
A Blessing and a Curse
And it will strike....like....like.....
Are you still a dream, Merlin?
Helen Mirren was stunning. She was perfect as Morgana...
I had serious hots for her when I watched this as a kid
She was hot then and even hotter now.
Pause at 4:13 ;)
When she said "drink!", I never felt so thirsty.
Actually, never noticed her much in this movie. Other than her being the antagonist. It was Cherie Lunghi who caught my eye. As far as EXCALIBUR actresses.
I absolutely love how every actor chews up their scenes. Especially Nicol Williamson.
Excalibur still gives me chills, The Emerald forest is a underrated Boorman classic as well.
The Emerald Forest is a masterpiece. Gives me chills thinking about it.
I was disappointed seeing Emerald Forest after waiting this long (bought it couple of years ago) maybe i need to watch it one more time before my final verdict though..
@@robvig It's actually based on a true story, might not be for everybody but I just thought it was beautifully shot and a amazing story.
@@kungfew1396 i just need some good acting to pull me into a Film, even low budget, i know all about it coz i watch documentaries a lot but i suppose overall i was expecting too much, perhaps. Always better to approach things with low expectations
@@robvig Well if you haven't seen Exorcist 2 go in with extremely low expectations, I don't know what the hell Boorman was thinking. 😂
no way in hell this masterpiece will ever be topped when it comes to King Arthur.
"Come father, let us embrace at last" absolutely killer line and in my top 3 movie quotes of all time easily.
This is not only one of my favorite fantasy movies of all time, it's also my No.1 favorite King Arthur movie (practically the BEST one ever made)
yeah still is my fav king arthur film. Nothing has come close.
@@fistimusmaximus6576 Could you believe they wanted to make a remake of this movie and have Guy Ritchie do it?
After his failure with Legend of the Sword, I'm glad Hollywood dropped the idea
@@sadlobster1 no I cant, every remake in modern times butchers the film they base it on. Guess we all dodged another classic getting the "updated with modern views".
@@fistimusmaximus6576 Except for the Apes trilogy with Andy Serkis, THOSE movies were awesome
@@sadlobster1 I am lobbying for a bill that would BAN the 'Updating' of Classic Film & TV! I call it The 'Land of the Lost' Law!
This movie is AWESOME !
As a little kid I was ABSOLUTELY mesmerized by the VERY "realistic" knights
Yeah, realistic for the 15th century, not so much for the early 5th century when the story is supposed to take place. I don't care though as this movie was not about historical accuracy, it is otherworldly, inhabiting its own place and time.
@@tedwojtasik8781 fun fact did you know bryan singer waa supposed to do remake of ezcalibwr but invwe happend
@@tedwojtasik8781 the story goes throughout centuries. For example the sword is pre christian era, when they search for holy grail, its symbolic to Christianity arrival and holy crusade happened.
Me too I was 10 or 11
Oh yeah, if anything Arthur was based on a Celtic (Proto Celtic?) hero legend.. Definitely not wearing mid-late medieval armour then but it's in its own World like you say. I wouldn't change a thing, its perfect.
I saw this movie as a child in the theater and it still moves me to the soul of my very being today. Majestic, epic, gritty, human and transcendent, including the music by the incomparable Richard Wagner. Truly the greatest rendering of Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table ever brought to the silver screen.
You can damn near feel the grittiness of this movie on your skin while watching
Don't forget Trevor Howard's interpretation of Wagner.
Tingles EVERYTIME I hear Carmina Burana. It is because I picture the shiny knights riding towards the blossoms.
Every time. It doesn't matter where I am or what I'm doing.
Also Wagner's Funeral March of Siegfried is used to brilliant effect.
The King without a sword the land without a King! That line pops in my head at least once a week
It is the old wound... it has never healed.
@@thrashpondopons2776 Lancelot he’s with us!”
"Are you with us or against us?"
"Against you!"
*hobbles away on horse*
@@commandercaptain4664 A Noble Knight??? Swear faith to a Squire!?!
That's also the first line in Molly Hatchet's epic song "Fall Of The Peacemakers"
I would love to see the 3 hour cut
#releasetheArthurianCut
When I was a teacher, I always played the scene where Arthur is knighted, to teach my young students about the importance of mutual respect.
No special effects needed. Grounded in gritty, muddy reality. I'm a native English speaker and even I found their accents other worldly. Subsequent Arthur movies never topped this masterpiece.
I love the trick of shining coloured light at a reflective object as a way of suggesting it is producing that light. I've even describe things that way in role-play games - it shines as if reflecting light and yet there is nothing close by to provide that light - it simply is. Much more effective than the post-production glow effect.
@@originaluddite interesting!
I can't begin to describe what Excalibur means to me. It captured my imagination as a child, and I've loved it with all my heart ever since. It's not the only movie that makes me feel this way, but it left an impression that's been with me all my life.
Excalibur is the movie that made me fall in love with Helen Mirren.
Liam Neeson is also in this
She & Liam Neesom met & fell in love during filming. John Boorman has her characters gold breastplate from the movie over a fireplace in his home in Ireland. So enamored with her figure.
@@sadlobster1 Liam was in Krull ('83) as well.
Helen was hot then and even hotter now.
Same. My first introduction to Mirren, and wow, did she leave an impression.
Magnificent rendering of the legend. Left a mark on me as a boy
Its so unusual to bring anything like this together , every character lighting , script , sex , magic , a perfect alchemy, utterly transcendental,
No cgi , lighting , voices , sound ,
Incredible
2:23, Nicol Williamson is perfect as Merlin.
Yeah, he’s great
A Dream to some and Nightmare to Others!
Max Von Sydow was supposed to play Merlin. But was otherwise engaged. I can see that, as he & Williamson are the same type. Williamson, however, will go down in cinematic history.
@@kjk7611 I like williamson a lot in this. He’s an incredible Merlin. But I am kinda curious to see what MVS would’ve done with it.
@@stefanfilipovits21 Me too. I wonder if Borman had THE EXORCIST in mind or Sydow's stage work or just his presence. And would Sydow have shaved his head? Did he for FLASH GORDON?
When Lancelot returns in the middle of the battle, righteously and brutally smiting, many people in the theater rose from their seats and let out a yelp. Truly one of the most heroic and stirring returns.
watched this as a kid, that music still gives me chills. Knights!, squires! prepare for battle!
What happened to the Guards??? & YES... one of the most quotable films EVER!
The ride to destroy evil as the land revives around the king. One more great scene from an 80's movie.
I remember this movie when I was a kid. It was on a VHS tape with “Blade Runner”. (This was in the mid-80’s) I still think it’s a major injustice that Nigel Terry and Nicol Williamson were never made into super-stars!
couldn't agree more 👍
What a pair of greats to have on the same self-recorded tape!
Nigel Terry did a wonderfully petulant Prince John in "The Lion In Winter".
From what I have heard - Nicol WIlliamson preferred live stage performance over other mediums , -he did not want to be known as a "movie star". He did alot of TV shows in Britain though.
@@cidb.212 He was Prince John in that film? I have to rewatch it. Only saw it once, I remember that was Anthony Hopkins first film.
One of my top 5 favorite films of all time. I was totally blown away the first time I saw it. Wagner adds so much grandeur and the sets are not of this world.
And Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana.
I just watched my Excalibur blu ray last weekend. I was 13 when this movie came out, and it has stuck with me ever since. I usually watch it once or twice a year, such a masterpiece.
Best King Arthur movie at least my favorite and never gets old thanks
It's so good!
Merlin's sense of humour is amazing!!!
I watched this movie so many times I could recite the Charm of Making….still can .
Even for all its flaws, there hasn’t been another King Arthur project to even come close to matching the epic-ness of this film !
Excalibur is my preferred version of the Arthurian legend. Period.
I show this film to my high school seniors every year for the past 20 years or so...they have learned to love it because I do. It's the film I've watched more than any other over the years.
Still the greatest telling of King Arthur and hasn't been topped since
Brilliant movie which came before all Conans and Lords. Incredible dreamlike experience.
Excellent video. Thanks.
Excalibur is THE King Arthur film. So beautiful and also dark.
One does not simply watch EXCALIBUR. One has to absorb it and become one with it.
One of the greatest movies of all time.
Ive seen this movie so many times from being a kid to a teenager and now as an adult and ive never got tired rewatching this classic film.
Only thing I wished on this movie back in the day is that I wish the ass whoping fights where longer.
As what I told my friends. All hail Excalibro! The most awesome movie you will ever see
When I was much younger, I envisioned opening up a Medieval Themed Pub! Was going to call it ' The Excali-BAR'!
This is simply one of the greatest movies ever.... Ever.
BEST BIT - when the sword is thrown into the lake... an a arm reaches out to catch it :-)
I absolutely love EXCALIBUR.
After watching this video, I may have to revisit the movie after all these years.
i was thinking of looking for a 4k version or bluray ;-)
@@MacStoker It's literally the only movie that I'd willingly buy in 4K.
@@AdrianColley after watching this i went and found a decent 1080 version mate... im Guessing a 4k version might show a lot of graininess,,,, but we can live in hope ;-)
I love this movie so much. So many amazing scenes. I like to rewatch certain scenes from time to time, such as Uriens knighting Arthur, Arthur drinking from the grail, and Arthur reuniting with Guinevere.
I absolutely love this movie! I watch it periodically over the years and it seems new each time. It says “fantasy”. It says “legend”. It is a rare movie that has all aspects of film making come together in perfect synchronicity. Acting is superb, music is sublime, storyline is enthralling, costumes are impeccable, lighting is perfect and direction pulls it all together to set an unprecedented storyline! There are no other versions told in film or on stage that even come close. It’s like everyone knows the importance of each aspect of film making, but “Excalibur” is one of the very rare films that actually has all aspects be complimentary of each other in equal measure. This film should be studied in every film school for all time. Right up there with “Godfather”
LoL - I was about 7 and asked my mum to rent me "The Sword in the Stone" on video, she came with with "Excalibur" and I loved it.
Amazing what talent can do with a small budget. These days Disney would probably throw $150mill at it and it would bomb.
Disney already throw 250M for black panther 2 and it's gonna be flop
Excalibur will always be a special fantasy, knights and magic movie. The music was amazing, the casting spot on, and the fact that fantasy was taken seriously was terrific.
My favorite movie of all time. I can quote it almost word for word! "Behold! The sword of power! Forged when the world was one, and bird and beast and flower were one with man!" "Looking at the cake is like looking at the future! Until you've tasted it, what do you really know? (Arthur bites the cake) "Too late!"
I’ve got a poster of this hanging in my movie room. One of my all time favorites.
Same here. It's my most favorite movie and I venture I have seen it more than anyone else on the planet.
Charley Boorman was Johns's son and also the star of the 80's film, The Emerald Forest. Boorman's Excalibur was, is and always will be one of my all time epic faves if not my fav of all.
The wisdom in this film is often overlooked. The idea that good can't exist without evil, Truth being the greatest quality of knighthood (humans) and the fact that there's always something cleverer than yourself. Truly magnificent.
All that info on the film, yet you failed to mention that the film is very strongly based on the 15th-century Arthurian romance, "Le Morte d'Arthur", by Sir Thomas Malory.
What King Arthur film isn't?
@@odysseusrex5908 Bad ones.
Malory took elements from various folk tales originating in Brittany and England (with major input from Sir Geoffrey of Monmouth's writings over 300 years earlier), and gathered them together into a cohesive whole. For example, Lancelot of the Lake wasn't originally the same Lancelot that betrays the king.
@@philgreen8101 Yes, all Arthurian romance ultimately traces back to Geoffrey. Geoffrey probably based his Arthur on the historical 5th century British leader known as Riothamus. There is no identifiable connection between Riothamus and the Arthur of the Welsh Matter.
Fairly certain they mentioned "The Death of Arthur", using the English name instead of the French
I feel robbed now knowing there could have been a 3 hour version. I'd watch that in a heartbeat!
Still one of my favorite movies ever. The scene where Arthur and Merlyn part still gets to me and reminds me of Socrates drinking the hemlock with no problem when Merlyn says: "There are other worlds. This one is done with me." Then Arthur hugs him and walks away and Merlyn sighs and simply says: "That's it." Just so much emotion, feeling and depth from those simple two words then then any long, tearful, overly dramatic speech. Life's work complete. No regrets. Time to go. Such an underrated scene.
I’m kind of torn on that. While I think it would be great to see that 3 hour directors cut, the version we got is tight & precise, telling the story to perfection. Hard call…
@@thomashauguel6811 I will admit that is a great point. The pacing is amazing. Maybe a special edition with all the extra scenes as bonus/deleted scenes.
Ah, but it isn't time to go. He looks to the horizon, and beyond, and sees one last threat that he must face alone. Morgana.
I loved "Excalibur" when it was first released, in my teen years. It began the 1980s trend of sword and fantasy that gave us Arnold as Conan, and so many more, none of which I cared for at all.
When Jackson's "Lord of the Rings" trilogy ended with "The Return of the King", with its emphasis on the king's special sword and how it conveys its unearthly power to one special man, my friends lauded this huge film and especially its use of music. They scoffed when I stated my preference for the more concise "Excalibur", which they had never seen.
I told one friend of the latter's use of operatic music, of its visual flair, all for the same theme as the bigger budget Jackson film. He laughed at me, so I bought him the DVD of "Excalibur". A year later I overheard him tell the same group of friends how much he preferred the power and music and look of "Excalibur". I congratulated him for his change of heart, and he denied ever thinking the bigger film superior. Boorman's movie had so completely won him over that his memory of his previous stance was wiped clean!
I saw and reeeeeally enjoyed The Green Knight a week or so ago. While I think The Green Knight is probably the best made and best looking Arthurian movie, Excalibur still stands as the best Arthurian movie overall. It distilled an entire mythos into a really digestible, beautiful, and memorable King Arthur film. Between the costumes, stellar performances, and the Wagner score it’s not hard to see why Excalibur still resonates.
So many good actors starting out. Gabriel Byrne, Liam Neesom, Ciran Hines.
@@samanthab1923 and so many great veteran actors turning in great performances. Patrick Stewart, Nigel Terry, Helen Mirren, Nicol Williamson.
I couldn't agree more
That looks really good. Since I was a kid & saw Sword in the Stone I've loved all Arthurian related legend movies. Even the Clive Owen one. Loved reading Once & Future King in HS.
There is a cheesy quality to this movie but it's pretty good.
Another quote, "Anál nathrach, orth’ bháis’s bethad, do chél dénmha!" Old school. Great stuff.
almost as badass has Klaatou, Verata, Niktoughhff!!
How many of us have quoted that line at one time or another?😉😂
Now, how in the heck did you spell that out?
@@thomashauguel6811 means "Serpent's breath, charm of death and life, thy omen of making." in a dialect of Old Gaelic. or so internet says lol
I hope you spelled that right , Get it wrong , God knows what could happen. LOL
One of my all time favourite films of any genre, Nicol Williamson's Merlin is a perfect performance.
I saw this movie when it came out and loved it. It wasn't until Lord of the Rings that another fantasy movie worked so well on so many levels. There is no CG, and most of the effects are practical or in camera. Yet it tells such a good story with such believable and relatable characters that it still holds up well, forty years later.
Truly, truly a MAGNIFICENT movie‼️ This is what the medium of movie making was meant for. I remember when I was in jr. high in literary history class the teacher tried explaining the story of Camelot to us and we didn’t take it seriously. Then she busted out with a VHS copy of Excalibur and the room went silent for the next 2 hours. Everyone was engulfed in it (and we’re talking about smart ass teenagers). The scene when Arthur rides to Ofortuna gets you pumped up like no other movie, GLORIOUS‼️ I always have time for this movie.
Boorman is a great director. Excalibur is a masterpiece
Excalibur is one of my all time favorite movies! Boorman's rendition of the Arthur Legend and Camelot is by far the best interpretation of the story of the Once and Future King. My praise and thanks.
Excalibur, a unforgettable
Masterpiece. Watched many times. In my collection.
Nigel Terry was so amazing playing a young man and then a wise old king and all the time in between, simply amazing.
Nicole Williamson's turn as Merlin is among the greatest acting performances of all time. Just his voice alone is iconic.
I seen this at movies when it was released as an elementary student.
It was and is what I measure all other King Arthur movies
Great movie. Nicol Williamson was incredible as Merlin. “When a man lies, he murders some part of the world.”
I still remember the charm of making
Your lust will hold you up!
the armor of the older knights in the beginning of the film is so intense. i wish i could get a copy of uthers armor.
Excalibur has a Star Wars vibe. Especially the visuals and cinematography.
I bought this on dvd in a bargain bin for 3 bucks about 10 years ago....best 3 bucks ive ever spent. 👍
One of my top five movies.
4:30, the costumes look beautiful and very otherworldly.
This movie was my introduction to Fantasy movies, and I loved it so much I went onto read a translation of the stories.
No other Arthurian movie comes close. The epic score, the actors, brutal battles, gritty props and armors as noted in the review likewise the fairly big brain metaphors vs other efforts.. I've just never taken to any other adaptation.. So many memorable moments and Wagner used so well!
And anyone who disagrees? Take them to the tree!!
Definitely the gold standard in Arthurian legend movies. Not a scene wasted, simple, practical effects and a score that does an excellent job and conveying the tone of the scenes. Some of the acting is a bit over the top, but overall the cast embodies their characters to perfection.
I think my favorite line has to be from Merlin when he’s in King Arthur’s dream: “A dream to some…A NIGHTMARE TO OTHERS!” Totally badass!
I loved the movie first time I saw it and despite being labeled as a "fantasy, action" movie, there is a bit of sad "melancholy" aspect of it that deeply moved me. I cannot believe that I saw the movie over 40 years ago. How fast time flies!!!!
This movie came along at just the right time & at just the place in my life. My elementary school was built in 1913 & looked like an old castle. Old interior. Our imaginations ran wild.
2:51, love that version!
The audio dialogue always seemed different to me, adding to the sense of myth and fable.
Thanks for this video, and all the comments which give me a fresh perspective! I actually don't like this movie at all, and have only previously met people who consider it a bit of a joke. However, I now appreciate that there is a substantial fandom for this film, and a lot of depth which I had personally never considered.
There is a clip where during the storming of the castle, you can see a guy with a cigarette in his mouth!
Really? Am gonna have to dig out the dvd and look for it now
Ive heard this but whats the DVD time stamp?
@@LaurenMiddleton28 good question, but it’ll be more fun looking for it though.
This movie is GOLD! A beautiful PIECE OF ART.
I always remember this movie because one of the knights would go on to play in the English sitcom Keeping up Appearances.
You're too funny! I always see him as Hyacinth's hubby too 😂
Richard! R.I.P. Clive Swift. ❤🌹🙏
🤣🤣🤣🤣 BUCKET LOL
Anne Brown That's right! 😂
@@andylikesstuffchannel Bouquet🤣🤣🤣🤣
No comment on the awsome soundtrack. And brilliant use of Wagners compositions in the musical mix.
This movie was my childhood. This is the best King Arthur movie bar none. Will be hard to top.
There are layers and layers of symbolism in the film, but in the narrative and the actual physical symbols used. It's astounding.
I remember as a kid watching this, I had got up to switch channels as this started, and I stood there still with my finger on the button to change channel for the whole film. I was transfixed. It’s a beautiful film.
What else can be said that hasn’t been said already. Timeless classic is what you have here and no mistake.
Saw this film as a kid and to this day it’s never been topped…best King Arthur film ever bar none!
One of my favorite movies of all times. Definitely best Arthurian movie ever. Anyone can put this movie on at any time, and I will sit and watch. Every time. Everything is just so great about this movie. I could type for hours about how much I love this!
I saw it when it first came out and watched it again last night. Every single actor is chewing the scenery, and that's what makes it great.
One of those movies that I rewatch more than 10 times already and not get bored
I watched this in the theater when it debuted. I fell in love...with the photography, the story, the dialog, the cast, the music, and of course the director. It’s not a perfect film but it’s a perfect film viewing experience and my favorite film.
The Art direction for this movie is always gorgeous!
I saw this in theaters as a little kid and it's always been remembered as the most epic movie of all time.
I saw this as a kid and it is one of the most memorable movies I have ever seen.
My opinion has not changed in the 40 years since I first saw it. It is the greatest movie ever made. Period.
One of my all-time favorites. Well written, well directed, well acted. I hate when say "They don't make them like this anymore". They rarely ever did.
I love this film. The scene where Perceval sheds his armour and is reborn from the water (baptised) is awesome