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The Princess Bride (1987)

A review by Damian Cannon.
Copyright © Movie Reviews UK 1997
Using the cliched scene of a bedside story, read by a grandfather (Peter Falk) to his sick grandson, which transports us into the tale we begin The Princess Bride. At first there's just too much kissing and romance for the grandson (he'd rather play computer games) but his grandfather promises action to come -- and he should know having read the same story to his son. True to his word we are transported to this mythical land where the farm girl and farm lad are deeply in love, inseparable until the young man is seemingly killed on a sea journey. The film reveals itself as both a fine fairy-tale (for younger viewers) and a charming spoof of sword & sorcery tales which will keep adults laughing (with many Monty Python-esque touches).

The farm girl is soon chosen by the King's son to be his wife, when she becomes the Princess bride; even though she has sworn to love none other than her first true love. Before the marriage can take place she is kidnapped by an unusual trio while riding and the adventures begin. In rapid succession we meet the Screaming Eels, the Cliffs of Insanity and her rescue by a masked saviour (who overcomes each of her kidnappers individually). Later we find that the Princess's true love is alive and has come back for her, which leads to some great scenes involving Billy Crystal as a wizened miracle-worker.

Throughout the movie there are great lines and actors who seem to be having as much fun with their characters as we have watching them. Occasionally the grandson interrupts the story with a question, which could easily break up the film; instead there is more joy to be found in seeing how he is drawn into the story. Perhaps it's obvious that there will be a happy ending? It doesn't matter -- as in all the best films it's how we reach the conclusion that counts and we're not disappointed this time. Also, watch out for The Machine the most devilish piece of torture equipment yet!

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