Back in 1969, John Boorman was planning to make an adaptation of Thomas Malory’s book. Arthur’s death (1485), is particularly interested in the quest theme. At the same time, United Artists offered him the opportunity to adapt Lord of the Rings by JRR Tolkien. But his script, far from the original work, is finally rejected by the studio.
John Boorman then uses the location scouting in Ireland and the aesthetic he developed for the project in favor of a film idea based on the Arthurian legend. In Excalibur, the filmmaker retraces Arthur’s origins, as well as his rise to kingship under the auspices of his advisor Merlin the Sorcerer and the creation of the Round Table.
John Boorman hilariously brings the Arthurian myths to life in an epic that is dreamlike and violent, filled with scenes that have become iconic, such as Arthur’s ride to his final battle. Carmina Burana by Carl Orff. It’s also an opportunity to admire yet-to-be-known actors with promising careers, such as Liam Neeson, Patrick Stewart and Gabriel Byrne.
Despite its extremely limited budget ($11 to 12 million), John Boorman delivers one of his best films and, by extension, one of the best fantasy films of all time.
appearing in the official competition of the 1981 Cannes Film Festival, Excalibur Also receives a prize for artistic contribution. It is now considered a cult film of the 1980s.
Excalibur John Boorman with Nigel Terry, Helen Mirren, Cherie Lange…
Tonight on Arte at 20:50.
Source: Allocine

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