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Dragonslayer
1981 108 min United States of America PG 6+
★7.2
Fantasy, Adventure
Director: Matthew Robbins
Trailers
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Description
A sorcerer and his apprentice are on a mission to kill an evil dragon to save the King’s daughter from being sacrificed according to a pact that the King himself made with the dragon to protect his kingdom.
Budget:
$18M
US Gross:
$14.11M
Worldwide:
$14.11M
Starring
Peter MacNicol
Actor
Caitlin Clarke
Actor
Ralph Richardson
Actor
Awards
Saturn Awards 1982
— Best Costume Design
Saturn Awards 1982
— Best Supporting Actor
Saturn Awards 1982
— Best Visual Effects
Academy Awards 1982
— Best Visual Effects
Saturn Awards 1982
— Best Fantasy Film
Academy Awards 1982
— Best Original Score
Key opinion
Dragonslayer is widely recognized for its groundbreaking dragon design and immersive, gritty Dark Ages atmosphere, which set it apart from typical fantasy films of its era. However, the film struggles to maintain consistent character engagement, with many viewers finding the emotional core and narrative pacing to be underwhelming.
| Production | The animatronic dragon remains a visual triumph, maintaining its impact and terrifying presence decades after the film's release. | |
| Production | The film effectively grounds its fantasy premise in a grim, tactile, and authentic-feeling Dark Ages setting. | |
| Acting | Peter MacNicol’s performance as the protagonist is polarized; some find him a relatable departure from typical 80s action heroes, while others view his portrayal as tonally inconsistent and forgettable. | |
| Theme | The film's tone is divisive, as it attempts to blend sophisticated, grim thematic weight with childish humor and standard fairytale tropes. | |
| Pacing | The pacing is a point of contention, with some viewers appreciating the measured, suspenseful buildup while others find the narrative rhythm sluggish and the outcome predictable. |