Wonderfully presented fantasy adventure
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Archived from the IMDb Discussion Forums — Ladyhawke
ToastedCheese — 11 months ago(April 08, 2025 12:24 PM)
Thoroughly enjoy viewing this film. I find the story and presentation very captivating. Have seen several times.
This magical tale unfolds nice and leisurely without coming over as dull or pretentious in the slower moments, is beautifully shot by ace Italian cinematographer Vittorio Storaro, and skilfully directed by Richard Donner.
There is action violence and enough swordplay that gives it a swashbuckling feel. The violence is not bloody graphic, yet still makes it point about how dangerous this age was.
The film may be a little clean looking for the black plague era represented, (see Rutger’s violent and disturbing
Flesh & Blood
from the same year for a stark contrast), but it was designed for family audiences and the film is largely out and about in sweeping vistas and lovely scenery.
Hauer and Pfeiffer make for an ideal pairing, the paradox being they are largely apart. Broderick is interestingly cast, yet never appears miscast and provides affable appeal and gentle humor.
If it wasn't for the music score, the film may have been near perfect. It is too 80’s synth pop sounding in parts, and it needed a more lyrical and lush orchestral sound. Contemporary electronic sounds need to be skillfully and subliminally placed into period films to cut through the films tempo/rhythm not manipulate it. Vangelis may have made this work, or a Jerry Goldsmith score perhaps, who was great with both orchestral and synth mixes.
Norman! What did you put in my tea?