I never read the novel this is based on. But that is also true with the Neverending Story - it did not take anything from the movie experience I had. While I probably shouldn't compare those two movies (just by having them in the same sentence some may feel I am doing exactly that), let me tell you that this is a gem, that should be celebrated a lot more than it is.
Of course those who watched this as kids already have a soft spot for the movie - in their heart and mind. Back in the 80s I doubt many were talking about representation and inclusion and other things of that nature. Having said that, this (and the novel it is based on surely) put a young girl front and center. And while I had forgotten many things from the movie (that I had seen in my childhood), I did remember the hair. Such great hair - I had forgotten about the turtle and the grey (bad) men.
There are cliches and the movie is aimed at young kids - but by doing exactly that and more importantly never pandering to its target audience, it achieves sucking us in. Which has to do with the cinematography and the sound design (music by Michael Ende, which I reckon might say something to a few reading this).
It may not have the greatest production values, but whatever it used (sets/streets) did age quite well. 35 years on and the movie still is magical - no pun intended. I am looking forward to a comic con that is hopefully happening in a week, where I might be able to talk to the main actress - curious to see how much she'll be able to remember.
Of course those who watched this as kids already have a soft spot for the movie - in their heart and mind. Back in the 80s I doubt many were talking about representation and inclusion and other things of that nature. Having said that, this (and the novel it is based on surely) put a young girl front and center. And while I had forgotten many things from the movie (that I had seen in my childhood), I did remember the hair. Such great hair - I had forgotten about the turtle and the grey (bad) men.
There are cliches and the movie is aimed at young kids - but by doing exactly that and more importantly never pandering to its target audience, it achieves sucking us in. Which has to do with the cinematography and the sound design (music by Michael Ende, which I reckon might say something to a few reading this).
It may not have the greatest production values, but whatever it used (sets/streets) did age quite well. 35 years on and the movie still is magical - no pun intended. I am looking forward to a comic con that is hopefully happening in a week, where I might be able to talk to the main actress - curious to see how much she'll be able to remember.