Dragonslayer kind of crept into and out of theaters and has been little seen since; which is a shame, as it is actually a very entertaining film. It features a great cast of solid actors, doing what actors are supposed to do. It essentially lacked a "star" to give the film attention, but doesn't really need one. The film more faithfully adapts the themes and conventions of fantasy literature than most attempts. The wizard is wise, but secretive; the hero unassuming. The motivations of characters are shrouded and shifting. All of the characters, right down to the dragon, are given shades of grey, making them that much more realistic. This is not some pulp-inspired mayhem, like Conan; but, rather, a throwback to medieval tales and folklore.
Ralph Richardson steals the movie, but Peter MacNicol and Caitlin Clarke more than hold their own. the dragon was quite well done, and wisely kept an unseen horror through the early parts of the film. The cave sequences are filled with tension and there is a bit of horror to add weight.
If you are a fan of fantasy film or literature, you would do well to view this film. It is a solid piece of film-making and has all of the trappings of a classic fantasy story. What's more, the DVD can be obtained at a bargain price.
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