With each passing year, trends in books, film, and
television rise and fall with new twists on storytelling alternating with
returns to traditional favorites. One of storytelling’s most agelessly
appealing genre’s, the fairytale, provides the backdrop for one of modern
film’s most timeless comedy classics; The
Princess Bride. Based on the novel of the same name by William Goldman, the
film takes a tongue-in-cheek approach to classic conventions in a way that
still remains as innovative and entertaining now as it was upon its initial
release in 1987. This week’s review will focus upon analyzing what it is about
this offbeat adventure that continues to make audiences laugh, gasp, and
believe in the power of true love.
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| Remember, true love doesn't happen every day |
1. FUN
FOR KIDS FROM EIGHT TO EIGHTY: One of the film’s greatest draws is its ability
to entertain children and adults in equal measure. The film begins as a
traditional fairy tale about the star-crossed love of haughty Buttercup (Robin
Wright) and humble farm-hand Westley (Carey Elwes). Early in the story, the
unnamed grandson (Fred Savage) in the opening framing device complains to his
grandfather (Peter Falk) that the story better not be a ‘kissing story’. Almost
as soon as the complaint is uttered, the tale takes a turn into a completely
different direction and morphs into a thrilling adventure populated by
swordsmen, giants, miracle makers, and corrupt royals. As the film goes on, the
romance and adventure become intertwined in a way that satisfies fans of both
genres. The dual tones of the film allow the story to alternate resonating
themes such as love, friendship, and redemption with bouts of action and humor
that will keep kids interested as well as their parents. The film also combines
both dry wit and straight comedy in such a way that children will remain
engaged with the obvious gags while their parents enjoy the more mature quips
and ironies. As a result, the film is able to maintain a balance between light
entertainment and heartfelt drama that is able to entertain audiences without
sacrificing any of its wit or substance.
2. FOR
EVERY THRILL THERE IS AN EQUAL AND SOMETIMES OPPOSITE LAUGH: While the film
expertly maneuvers between romance and adventure it is also equally effective
at combining comedy with drama. For instance, when Buttercup is kidnapped as
part of an elaborate political conspiracy, the intensity of her plight is
offset by the constant bickering amongst her captors. Similarly, Westley and
Buttercup’s trek through the fire swamp is a constant juggle between the drama
of the dangers that they face and the comedy of the offbeat way in which they
cope. Throughout its running time, the script makes a point of acknowledging
the histrionics and lack of realism that too often bog down both love stories
and fantasy films and uses them to its advantage. By playing up the pitfalls of
both genres, the film avoids taking itself too seriously and the risks of
seeming cliché or melodramatic that often come with doing so. Through its
mixture of comedy and drama, the film manages to recount a compelling quest that
also serves as a superb genre spoof.
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| Three of the friendliest kidnappers you'll ever meet |
3. IT
STILL MANAGES TO PULL ON THE HEARTSTRINGS: Perhaps the greatest strength of
this consistent crowd pleaser is the way that its emotional pull continues to
hold up after numerous viewings. Although the film is best known for its comedy
and action, The Princess Bride is at
its heart a timeless tale of good versus evil and human bonds triumphing over
material gains. It is the love between Westley and Buttercup that propels the
story’s action and it is that same bond that provides the film with its
emotional core. Behind each laugh and each fight scene there is always the true
love that is inspiring the protagonists in their journey. Of course, as in all
of the best love stories, the romance between the leading man and lady is one
that requires sacrifice, faith, and loyalty. Through the protagonists’ constant
ordeals, the story reminds audiences of the trials that all relationships
undergo as well as the companionship and understanding that make them worth all
the while. The story’s bonds between its male characters are equally crucial as
Westley relies upon the help of his enemies turned allies Fezzik (Andre The
Giant) and Inigo (Mandy Patinkin) in order to complete his quest. The
mismatched Fezzik and Inigo highlight the value of friendship and loyalty as
the two manage to play off of each other’s opposing skills and personalities to
both reach their individual goals and help each other in the process.
One of
the film’s most powerful messages is its interpretation of the classic axiom
‘don’t judge a book by its cover’. This notion is most obviously emphasized by
the grandson’s initial rejection and eventual enjoyment of the book The Princess Bride but is also utilized
throughout the film’s plot. For example, while Inigo and Fezzik initially
appear to be bumbling villains they later prove themselves to be worthy allies
and heroes in their own right when they join forces with Westley. Similarly,
Buttercup trusts the vile Prince Humperdink without realizing his true
duplicity, but despises the ‘Dread
Pirate Roberts’ before it is revealed that he is actually her beloved Westley in disguise. This recurring
theme serves as a reminder to both the characters and audience to value people
for who they are rather than what they appear to be. Through its emphasis upon
these core concepts, the film adds emotional depth and valuable lessons to its
already entertaining narrative. Through its inconceivable combination of
laughs, thrills, and timeless life lessons The
Princess Bride is a true classic that provides all the family entertainment that you could wish for.
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| P.S. Never match wits agaisnst a Sicillian when death is on the line |
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