Excalibur
Image taken from allposters.com
The story of King Arthur has captivate people for many centuries. Many adaptations have been made of this man’s story, yet we are no closer to getting to know who the real King Arthur really was. Yet, with the legend in mind, Director John Boorman created one of the most famous adaptation of Arthur known as Excalibur. The film was made to be historical, in that it did not adhere to historical events. Boorman sought to get to the essence of the legend. He wanted to let people understand the power this legend has.
The film takes place in what we can assume is England. However, it is only referred to as “the land.” Knights roam the land, making this film somewhat historical in nature. Magic is also commonplace which makes this film seem somewhat of a fantasy story. Whatever genre you may consider it, the story is about Arthur, a young squire who grows up to become King of the land. With the help of his adviser Merlin, Arthur is able to rule the land peacefully.
Soon, evil magic from his sister Morgana threatens the peace. Arthur sends his knights on a quest for the Grail so that the land can be healed. One again, this grail does not adhere to the famous Holy Grail of Jesus. It is meant as a pagan symbol that signifies the connection between Arthur and the land. If the land dies, then Arthur dies. Only with the help of this symbolic Grail can peace be restored. Once Arthur is cured, he marches against the forces arrayed against him and defeats them with the power of his sword Excalibur.
