In the spring of 1981, movie audiences were flocking to see RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK and SUPERMAN II . .. and little else. A number of deserving films were trampled in the stampede of media attention and mega~bucks. One such film was the unique and exciting DRAGON SLAYER, which was written, produced and directed by the team of Hal Barwood and Matthew Robbins, and was a co-release of Paramount and the Disney studios.
In April of this year, DRAGONSLAYER will be re-released. The film is worth a first, second, or even third look, if only for the sensual delight and terror of seeing a monstrous, malevolent, fire-breathing dragon come alive.
DRAGONSLAYER represents the true state of the art of stop~motion and mechanical special effects. The Opticals and matte-work are so seamless that even the most discerning viewer will not be aware that he or she is watching over 160 Special effects during the course of the film.
But the reason that the beast has such inspect and the effects stand so tall is that meticulous care was taken in set design, lighting, and costumes to draw the viewer into the primitive, dark, mist-shrouded, grime-soaked world of Britain in the Dark Ages. With a solid script and an excellent cast, this mysterious realm comes to vivid life.
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