The Neverending Story
|
List Price: Our Price: $3.51 You Save: $11.47 (77%) Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days Buy Used: from $1.48 (click here) Category: DVD See more DVD releases |
|---|
Canada
Movie Reviews of The Neverending Story
Movie Review: What dreams may come...
Summary: 5 Stars
Opening with cheesy 80's Europop and littered from head to toe with dated visuals and hilarious makeup jobs; `The Neverending Story' remains one of my favorite films and one of those childhood memories I wish to hold onto forever. I can't even count to amount of times I've seen this film; it was basically on repeat throughout the entirety of my childhood. Being released the year before I was born didn't hurt any. When I think of iconic moments in my upbringing, the introduction of this film ranks even higher than the first time I saw `The Return of the Jedi'; seriously.
In rewatching this film for the near hundredth time the other night with my young daughter (who was equally amused and yet totally confused) I found myself finding a depth within this film that was completely wasted on my youth. Having never read the novel (for a film that flaunts the beauty of reading, I never even knew that this was an adaptation) I cannot say if the `meanings' I gathered upon a recent viewing were intended of if they are of my own imaginings, but I must say that this film transcended it's own entertainment value for me the other night, for now it carries with it a heavier weight.
I'm going to scream SPOILERS and get that out of the way right now.
Where to begin with my interpretations is a hard thing to gage, since the themes presented here are varied in themselves and so it's kind of a shot in the dark with where to start. A brief rundown of the film finds a young boy named Bastian who is finding it difficult to move on after the death of his mother (the cause is never addressed) and he is frequently tormented by bullies and failing his classes and all of this cumulates into a cry for help in the form of...reading. Yes, Bastian steals a book (which he promises to return) and holes himself up in the attic of his school where he indulges in a fantasy world where he has a direct say in `how the story will end'. The story revolves around Fantasia, a world that dwells within the `hopes and dreams' of humankind. A wicked `nothing' is destroying the world, swallowing everything and replacing it with a void. A young warrior is summoned and sent out to find a cure for the ailing Empress, who is the only one who can stop the Nothing.
The obvious here is that this Fantasia is a representation of Bastian's childhood. In youth we are smothered with `hopes and dreams' and yet, as we age, we lose those `dreams' and replace them with reality, which is usually far less grand than we anticipated. There are a number of films that have riffed on this narrative. I've recently reviewed `The Red Balloon', which tackles this idea, and we are mostly all familiar with 2009's underappreciated masterpiece, `Where the Wild Things Are'. In `The Neverending Story', Bastian's recent loss of his mother has dissolved his innocence. He is finding it hard to function in `reality' and he isn't getting any support from those around him. His own father urges him to `move on', which is not something easily done, especially for a child. In essence, Bastian's own father is forcing him to grow up way too fast, and all Bastian needs is to remain a child for as long as possible.
What struck me even more so upon this recent viewing was the religious (or so they seem) tremors that streamline this films core. In a conversation between Atreyu and the evil G'mork, G'mork mentions that the Nothing wants to destroy hope because the loss of hope makes it easier to control people. When thinking of the war between God and Satan, it seems as if this film (and quite possibly the novel from which it stems) was attempting to illuminate the plight that Satan's influence has had on the world today. By destroying man's faith, he has stripped away their hope and thus made it easier to control man.
Wow, that's very unlike me (I very rarely mention religion in reviews), but it struck me so powerfully while watching this film that I felt the need to say all that.
Casting the films lyrical intentions aside, the stunning (at times) cinematography and the exciting flow of the films elements make this a great adventure story that still holds up today. Sure, it's not as polished as some recent fantasy films, but it reminds me of home and that nostalgia will never leave me. Noah Hathaway's performance is quite terrible, but Barret Oliver's in genuinely fantastic, instantly iconic in its own right.
Watch this movie, and love every minute of it!
Movie Review: For anyone who dreams...
Summary: 5 Stars
I just barely bought this movie on DVD and watched it last night - what a great flick! This one really ranks up there with my personal favorites. I wish I would have seen it in the movie theater when it first came out. I would have been eight at the time, but I guess I missed this one. I don't remember the first time I saw this flick, but all my favorites that I do see on the big screen, always stand out vividly.Still, for the first time, I got to see it widescreen, as it is supposed to be seen, and it was absolutely amazing, not to mention ten times better than seeing it simply fullscreen. If you get to see it on DVD, I would *highly* recommend it. You can see the scenery much, much better, and its dazzling. The picture and sound quality are great, too.
If there were ever a kid I could relate to, or a character in film, Bastian would be it. He even has a cool name! The movie is based on a story written in German (as far as I understand). I've never read the book, but I'm certain it would be just as good, if not better. Anyway, the main kid, Bastian, is (like me) a little obssessed with fantasy, and loves to daydream. Of course, I can still get away with it, too, since I've got ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivty Disorder - I can't sit still and can't pay attention for too long). Obviously, reading a good book is a lot better than taking a stupid math class, and I'm sure I'd do the same thing he did. As he reads the story, it comes to life to us, and we get to see what is happening in the story. Near the end, the two intermix quite a bit, and Bastian comes to save Fantasia, where imagination is without boundaries.
The movie is truly imagination-inspiring. That's why, after so many years from my early childhood, I can still remember it very well - especially the very end, where he is able to wish as many wishes as he wants. That idea sure took off in my head!
Fortunately, and unlike *most* fantasy flicks we run into, this one is very well done. I've found that there's generally a large division on good fantasy movies - either they are very good, like this one, or they really, really stink (for example, The NeverEnding Story II). The whole idea really works, though the dialouge is there only so adults can follow the plot. The kids couldn't care how it fits together, since there's so much going on that just sparks the mind.
This is a great flick for kids, and for anyone who dreams, or daydreams (like I do), and enjoys genuinely good fantasy flicks. Also another great feature is it's absolutely clean. There's two semi-scary parts: when the dead knight's mask flies open (for a young kid like me, that *was* a bit tramautizing), and when Atreyu kills the black beast - that is kinda bloody for a kid's movie, but oh well - it didn't scare me as much.
The only minor miff I have with this movie is the Childlike Empress. Ugh! Here's a classic case of a child actress trying to act beyond her age (and skills). With most kid movies though, they generally have a young male and female, to appeal to both sexes, so if the girls are turned off with this movie, I can completely understand why. The guys have lots of cool figures to relate to (Bastian and Atreyu). The poor girl certainly tries, but it's pretty obvious at the same time. If it weren't for that cheesy grin, than I'd probably leave her alone. It's not that bad though, but it does seem a bit melodramatic.
Overall, a great flick. I tell you what. I'm glad I have it on DVD, so I can really enjoy it. The trailer on it is a treat. It's the theatrical trailer, so it's widescreen, and it is in fine condition. On some DVDs I've seen, it seems like they pulled the film right from the trash can and didn't bother cleaning it up much (the trailer on Tron, for example). But, like I said, this is a great one to see on DVD, and watch it widescreen, to get the whole picture. It's always fun to go back to Fantasia. The really sucky part is that we can't always stay there. *sigh*
Movie Review: Up there as One of the Best Fantasy Movies Ever
Summary: 5 Stars
This movie's release was unfortunatly overshadowed by the release of E.T., and so many missed out on this incredible movie that is one of the rare movies that actually improves on the original novel (although Micheal Ende would probably disagree). Bastian is a young boy, still grieving from the death of his mother, struggling in his relationship with his father, suffering from nightmares, and mercilessly bullied by fellow school students. To escape from this unhappy existence, he surrounds himself with books, and one day when escaping the local bullies hides in an old bookshop belonging to the mysterious Mr Koreander. Using the ole' reverse psychology treatment, the old man entices Bastian to run off with a large book, intrigingly titled 'The Neverending Story'. Hiding himself in the school's storage room, Bastian begins to read of the land of Fantasia, which draws him deeper and deeper into it's story as he reads of the young hero Atreyu and his quest to find a cure for the seriously ill Child-Like Empress to stop the mysterious Nothing that is swallowing up the land.
What follows is an incredible journey of adventure, magic, imagination and faith that the two boys face - Atreyu by experiencing them, Bastian by reading them - helped by Falcor the luck dragon, the gnomes Engwok and Urgl and the giant Rock-Biter, and hindered by the ever-growing Nothing and the wolf-like G'Mork. By the conclusion, we not only learn the (rather startling) true natures of both Fantasia and the Nothing, but are left with some pretty important issues to think about such as the importance of the imagination, the need faith in one's self and reinforcing the idea that just one person can make a difference.
A few minor gripes with the story is that the rocky relationship between Bastian and his father is not properly resolved or explored, though it is implied that they eventually reconcile. Also, after the climax in the Ivory Tower, Atreyu unfortunatly drops from the action. True, his role in the story was completed, and the spotlight has to fall on Bastian, but it would have been nice to of had a scene with both Atreyu and Bastian who share their adventure together.
The three children actors are utterly outstanding - Noah Hathaway as the heroic and innocent Atreyu, Barret Oliver as the Bastian who manages to be hopeful and despairing at the same time, and the stunning Tami Stronach as the Child-Like Empress, who never fails to make an impression as Atreyu nervously approaches her in the Ivory Tower. Adult actors back up the child stars nicely, and even the special effect characters such as Falcor, the Rock Biter and Morga come across as real characters, capable of real emotion.
Even though this movie is getting on in years, it undoubtably holds up to today's standards. The many characters such as Falcor, the Racing Snail, the Bat, the Rock Biter and the chilling G'Mork (who still makes me shiver every time he says -
"People who have no hopes or dreams are easy to control") are flawless. Sets such as the Swamp, the Ivory Tower, Engwok's cave and the Sphinx are also still as fresh as they were on their original release - although they used the same figures for the Southern Oracle as they did for the Sphinx, only changed the color - slack!
Lastly, the soundtrack is beautiful, and the song 'The Neverending Story' is perhaps the best song written for a movie.
My enthusiastic ravings are no doubt due to the fact that this movie featured dominantly in my childhood - it partly helped along my love of books, and remains one of my all-time favourite movies. Hopefully I haven't over-hyped it for you, but it's truely a great film that you don't have to be a kid to enjoy, and can learn more from each time you watch it.
Note: Avoid the sequels at all costs - they are appalling. Trust me on this one.
Movie Review: The ultimate fantasy film!
Summary: 5 Stars
Scoff if you will at the dated appearance and juvenile dialogue of "The Neverending Story," but chances are, if you happen upon someone who has seen the film, your opinions will differ immensely. Based on the novel by Michael Ende, this highly imaginative and visually sumptuous fairy tale is nothing short of astounding, and certainly a step forward in the children's film genre in its time.Truth be told, there is nothing quite like this film, and while attempts at sequels have failed miserably, they are unable to hinder the effect it has on its viewers. It sticks with you, in your mind, from the opening theme song to the stunning visual effects and dark undertones that permeate the story's conflict.
The film begins when a young boy is chased down the street and hides in a bookstore to evade his pursuants. Bastian is a small child, though highly educated and an enthusiatic reader, though his mother's recent death have caused his school grades to hinder and his relationship with his father to turn stale. Which is why his interest is peaked when he happens upon a book by the name of "The Neverending Story," a large volume whose cover is enough to intrigue even the audience into sticking with the film.
As Bastian begins reading the story, he is transported into the world of Fantasia, where a mysterious force known only as The Nothing is destroying this elegant land. Many citizens of Fantasia have made their way to the Ivory Tower to seek the help of the Empress, who is fatally ill. Only one can find a cure for her illness: Atreju, a preteen warrior of the plains people who is called upon to seek out and destroy The Nothing and save the Empress from death. This begins both of their journeys: Atreju's treck across the land to find some hope of saving the increasingly deteriorating land, and Bastian's realization that he is playing a much larger role in the events of the book than he dares to think about. Atreju learns that discovering the answers to his questions means looking inside himself, while the both of them must find the courage to face their fears and save Fantasia before it is too late.
For many who see the film, the connectiveness between these two worlds will seem silly to the point of absurdity. But this is not a film for such a mindset: this is a children's fantasy film, a delightful deluge of important morals and values that children are instilled with at an early age. From courage and faith, to truth and heroism, these traditional values are effectively dispersed throughout, and succeed in conveying their messages.
For those who enjoy out-of-this-world landscapes and breathtaking vistas, this is a real treat. Fantasia is a place of endless beauty, cut with settings of dismal terror. The Ivory Tower stands as a pinnacle of hope against the setting sun, while such places as the Swamps of Sadness and the Southern Oracle, are treacherous and foreboding. The Nothing is the centerpiece for the film's visual delights, shown in the form of storms and endless dark clouds.
Parents should not miss letting their child in on "The Neverending Story," which has a lasting impact like no other film of its kind. Wolfgang Petersen's first English-language film is a striking example of excellence, no matter how you look at it. The film itself may have an ending, but its final message and the memory it leaves is endless.
Movie Review: Triumph of human Imagination
Summary: 5 Stars
Sir Adam got it almost right! Good review, by the way.This is an awesome story about the importance of the story. Yes, the moral lesson of "The Neverending Story" is the importance of the story itself (and by extension the importance of human imagination). If one has read some of Joseph Campbell's "The Power of Myth" one understands this completely. It is that Native American idea of "he who does not have the stories has nothing."
The key force of destruction in this tale is "the Nothing" literally non-existence or the lack of imagination. The world in which "The Neverending Story" takes place, Fantasia, is a conglomerate universe composed of the dreams and hopes of all people. Every story ever told and every character who has ever lived exists somewhere in Fantasia. So that somewhere in Fantasia, Paul Atreides wanders a desert landscape while somewhere else in Fantasia Alice falls down the rabbit hole.
Fantasia, this conglomerate world of human dreams, is dying. The reason is that people in the real world no longer dream... of anything. It is a very modern tale about the death of the human capacity to, as John Lennon put it, IMAGINE. Without the capability to imagine anything, people become easily manipulated by forces greater than them... this is where the real villain comes in (more about that after the next paragraph).
The main protagonist, Atreyu, is the alter ego of the real life boy who is reading the story. The real life boy, therefore, is filled with imagination, brimming with it, in fact. He exists in a real world where nobody imagines anything anymore. Therefore, the alter ego (in Fantasia) of the real life boy with imagination is a young champion who is trying to save imagination itself and its conglomerate world, Fantasia.
The real villain of the story is, at least from a Christian context, Lucifer, or the Devil himself. He is the "force behind the Nothing" who is attempting the death of all imagination. This explains the creature known as the Morg. As Sir Adam mentioned in his review, this is the major adversary for Atreyu (and the real life boy who is his generator). The Morg is, in his own words, "a servant of the force behind the Nothing." The Morg is, I believe, a demon, or fallen angel servant who has somehow crossed the border into Fantasia and put on the guise of that mythical creature of destruction, the werewolf. The Wolf image is only a guise used by the demon to try to blend in with his surroundings.
Of course, we know who wins in the end. This is a very complex movie and a VERY relevant one to the times in which we are living. I see people around me who are quite literally mental cripples who are incapable of imagination. Without the stories, we are nothing.