Willow (1988) - Detailed Information

About Willow

"Willow" is a 1988 American dark fantasy drama film directed by Ron Howard. It's based on a story by George Lucas. The plot centers on the epic adventure of a humble farmer named Willow Ufgood, who discovers a special infant, Elora Danan, destined to end the reign of the evil queen Bavmorda. With the support of allies he meets along the journey, Willow must protect Elora from Bavmorda's forces and bring her to safety.

Making / Production

Produced by Lucasfilm and released by MGM/UA Entertainment Company, Willow marked a departure for director Ron Howard from his previous comedic works. The special effects, especially the character Morf, were groundbreaking for their time, utilizing the morphing technology developed by Industrial Light & Magic.

Actors

• Warwick Davis played the titular character, Willow Ufgood. His portrayal of a reluctant hero was both heartwarming and engaging.
• Val Kilmer as Madmartigan. Kilmer's charismatic rogue warrior proved to be a memorable highlight.
• Joanne Whalley portrayed Sorsha, the queen's daughter who eventually aids Willow and Madmartigan.
• Jean Marsh played the menacing antagonist, Queen Bavmorda.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• This was one of the first movies to use morphing special effects technology.
• Val Kilmer and Joanne Whalley met on this film and later got married.
• The words chanted by Fin Raziel to transform back into human form are in Sanskrit and mean "Knowledge, understanding and wisdom".

Awards

Willow was nominated for two Academy Awards - Best Visual Effects and Best Sound Editing.

Quotes

• "We're all going to die and it's your fault!" - Willow
• "What are you staring at? Your leg's not broken." - Madmartigan
• "I dwell in darkness without you and it went away?" - Sorsha

Music, Soundtrack

• The film score was composed and conducted by renowned composer James Horner.
• The soundtrack received critical acclaim and is considered one of the best features of the film.