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8/10
Worthy adaptation of a priceless book
8 March 2005
The book is simply amazing and this film adaptation adequately embodies its epic stature. I am amazed how much of the book is actually reflected in a 2-hour television digest version. I really don't like spoilers and I always try to avoid giving away a story myself, so I will just say this movie can be enjoyed by either fans of Marion Zimmer Bradley's book or the uninitiated.

The scenery, cinematography and costumes are beautiful. The acting is generally very smart and understanding. The cast was well chosen. The writing is well-informed.

Some of the negative reviewers seem to be offended by sexual material and what they perceive as "anti-christian" content. Of course I would not try to change any of these people's opinions, but I would remind these reviewers of the story's point of view. The setting is in a largely non-Christian world and told from a feminine perspective. With virtually all other tellings being from a masculine, heroic, 15th century Christian perspective (despite the fact that the setting is actually 4th century pagan) I find this appealing for history's (her-story's) sake alone. Usually the "winners" write history. In this case I think Bradley is trying to tell the other side of the story.
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Excalibur (1981)
10/10
The classic movie version of King Arthur
8 March 2005
This is simply the best movie version -- worthy of the story of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. Boorman's version captures the magic and grandeur of the tale in rich mystical colors. This movie has the care, the special attention to and taste for detail that elevates some works of art beyond the ordinary. The casting and acting for virtually every character is inspired. I especially love Nicol Williamson as Merlin; a great marriage of actor and character. Boorman's love for nature is quite evident as he uses the seasons and their flora as part of the story telling. The anachronistic use of plate armour can be excused since the overall styling and costumes for this movie are timeless and focus on the mythical in Arthurian legend. Excalibur has always been one of my favorite movies.
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