The Princess Bride: Classic 80s Movie Review

It would be inconceivable not to include "The Princess Bride" when discussing classic 80s movies. The film, based on William Goldman's book of the same title, blends fantasy, parody, romance, and wit so well that it's made the movie an unforgettable classic. If you ever wondered why people burst into these quotes- "Never get involved in a land war in Asia," "Inconceivable!" or "Hello, my name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die"-look no further.

"The Princess Bride" opens with an ill boy, playing a videogame to stave away boredom. He's soon visited by his grandfather, who gives him a present. It's a book. The boy is less than amused. "A book?" he asks with a little sneer.

Undeterred, the grandfather lists the book's virtues: "Fencing, fighting, torture, revenge, giants, monsters, chases, escapes, true love, miracles..." The skeptical grandson relents and promises that he'll "try to stay awake." He soon, however, becomes more enthralled by the story with each passing moment.

The majority of the movie centers on the book's story, with brief interruptions by the grandfather and grandson. There's Buttercup, who upon losing her true love has agreed to enter a loveless marriage with Prince Humperdinck. There's Vizzini, a clever Sicilian who's been hired to kidnap and kill Buttercup to start a war with a neighboring country. There's Inigo Montoya, a master fencer who's been hired by Vizzini, but whose true goal is to avenge his father's death. There's Fezzik, a giant with a penchant for rhyme who's also been hired by Vizzini. And then there's the mysterious man in black, who's doggedly pursuing Vizzini and Buttercup.

Prepare for some offbeat humor-whether that be Buttercup throwing herself down a hill and ridiculously tumbling down or the attack of the R.O.U.S.'s (rodents of unusual size). But if you can appreciate the quirky humor and wit, you'll see why "The Princess Bride" continues to be a cherished movie among adults and kids alike.

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