Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5 Stars)
Released 10-09-1987
Watched 08-22-2023
Reviewed 08-25-2023
Watched on Disney+. Available to Rent or Buy on Amazon.
“My name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die.”
There's a reason why "The Princess Bride" has solidified its place in cinematic history and a reason that we, as a family, watch this movie at least once a year. A delightful blend of romance, adventure, humor, and fantasy, Rob Reiner's 1987 adaptation of William Goldman's novel is an exemplary model of storytelling at its finest.
The ensemble cast is simply spectacular. Cary Elwes and Robin Wright dazzle as the iconic Westley and Princess Buttercup, painting a portrait of true love that defies all odds. Meanwhile, Mandy Patinkin's portrayal of Inigo Montoya is unforgettable, and who could resist the hilarious banter between Wallace Shawn's Vizzini and Andre the Giant's Fezzik? Every character, no matter how minor, brings depth and charm to this enchanting tale.
Beyond the outstanding performances, the script is a masterclass in wit and pacing. The dialogue is endlessly quotable, with lines that have found their way into the lexicon of pop culture. The film artfully combines moments of tension, drama, and comedy without ever feeling disjointed.
Reiner's direction beautifully captures both the sweeping vistas of the story's fantastical settings and the intimate moments between its characters. The soundtrack, too, composed by Mark Knopfler, only heightens the atmosphere, imbuing every scene with an emotional resonance.
At its heart, "The Princess Bride" is more than just a fairy tale. It is a narrative about the endurance of love, the pursuit of justice, and the timeless nature of storytelling itself. A movie that can be revisited time and time again, always revealing something new and delightful, it truly deserves every one of its five stars. If you've never embarked on this cinematic journey, prepare yourself for a treat. And if you have, then as you wish, dive in once more.