Willow (PG) PRESENTED IN 35MM

Willow (PG, 1988) Presented in 35mm Film by The Revival House Perth

In a magical fantasy realm, an evil sorceress named Bavmorda (Jean Marsh) seeks to destroy a prophesied child who will bring about her downfall. When the infant is smuggled away by a fairy, she ends up in the care of Willow Ufgood (Warwick Davis), a good-hearted but reluctant dwarf farmer with no experience in heroic quests. Willow is thrust into an epic adventure when he agrees to protect the baby and help return her to the fairy realm. Accompanying him is the roguish swordsman Madmartigan (Val Kilmer), a mercenary-turned-reluctant-hero with his own moral awakening. Together with the beautiful warrior Sorsha (Joanne Whalley) and her mother Queen Bavmorda's protégé transformed into an ally, they journey across a perilous fantasy landscape filled with dragons, demons, and dark magic. Willow must discover his own latent magical abilities and inner courage to defeat Bavmorda and ensure the prophesied child's survival.

Director Ron Howard brings spectacular fantasy adventure to life with this 1988 film that celebrates the hero's journey and the power of unlikely heroes. Warwick Davis anchors the film with genuine warmth and humor as Willow—a man who becomes heroic not through special training but through necessity and compassion. Val Kilmer steals scenes as Madmartigan, a charming rogue whose self-interest gradually transforms into genuine concern for others. The film's practical effects, creature designs by Industrial Light & Magic, and elaborate sets create a fully realized fantasy world. The sword-and-sorcery action sequences are genuinely exciting, particularly the climactic battle featuring flying creatures and magical combat. James Horner's soaring orchestral score captures both wonder and danger. While the film follows familiar fantasy tropes, it executes them with such enthusiasm and technical skill that it transcends formula. Howard's direction emphasizes character and emotional stakes alongside spectacle, making Willow's journey feel earned rather than inevitable.

Original format and audio experience of this film faithfully reproduced by The Revival House. Presented in 35mm film unless noted otherwise.

When: Saturday, July 25th at 2:00PM
Where: The Revival House at the Como Theatre
Rating: PG (The content is mild in impact)