There are so many films that come out every week let alone every year, aren’t there? We can get so caught up in trying to keep up with the latest awards contenders, box office hits, and culturally relevant pieces that we just don’t have enough time to turn back the clock and check out films from the past. But it is so important to expand our horizons and experience the art that has set the stage for today’s cinema. You might need to find the time, so it is important to make wise choices with what you spend that time watching. Whether we head back 10 years, 50 years, or even 100 years, there is great cinema throughout the years. But let’s rewind the clock and here are some reasons why you should check out… Ladyhawke (1985)
| Directed by Richard Donner Starring: Matthew Broderick, Rutger Hauer, Michelle Pfeiffer |
Fantasy
We just don’t get enough fun and enjoyable fantasy films, do we? At least not in live-action (there are dozens and dozens of animated ones). Live-action fantasy is probably the hardest type of film to make work. But sometimes you just need to lean into the fun and campiness of it all. Unless it is some high fantasy (like The Lord of the Rings) there can be an inherent silliness to it all. Whether that is portrayed through the action, dialogue, or tone of the film, it can go a long way toward making the film successful. Ladyhawke takes that tone and runs with it. The 80s cheese is running high (especially through the music) even if the story is deeply romantic and tragic. We have shapeshifting, curses, and medieval settings…director Richard Donner has this one cover.
Richard Donner
Speaking of Donner…his direction is plenty of fun! He knows how to balance tone so well (Lethal Weapon anyone?). The ability to balance silly and campy fantasy elements with the deeply resonant romance of the story is impressive. Without the steady hand of Donner, Ladyhawke would not work out together. There is a truly tragic love story at the center of this film which is surprisingly effective. But Donner can keep things going even with a few pacing issues. The action is highlighted by fun sword fighting which makes for a lot of fun. Donner makes the most of camera tricks and movie magic to make this world come together.
Rutger Hauer
Hauer was in a special place for a specific time in the 80s. His work on Blade Runner is absolutely legendary. Roy Batty is one of the best and most sympathetic villains around. But Hauer gets to play the hero this time around (but with a bit of an edge). His character Navarre has a chip on his shoulder and a loved one to take care of. Hauer captures the energy of his best performances as he channels a rugged and quiet warrior. He might not have a ton of lines up when he talks with his intense and whispery voice. He captures the physicality of the role with his sword offering up some exciting action sequences. Without the steady hand and cool demeanor, we have an 80s character to fall in love with.
The Score
This score might be one of the most 80s things I have heard in my entire life. The synthesizers. The guitar. The big sound (and presuming the big hair on those playing it too). This score from Andrew Powell is probably the most memorable part of this film (and that is not in a bad way). The music is triumphant! It is loving. It can be scary and thrilling. Whatever emotion is needed, those synths deliver the goods. The score helps create this campy feel which makes the film that much more fun to enjoy. The film might be a bit of a B-fantasy film…but this score is an A+.
