Enchanting Media

Posted by Lisbeth Cheever-Gessaman Nov 13, 2007

It's become ritual looking for movies and media that offer fantasy and enchantment for its own sake. The trouble is, most movies created with a magical flair are geared for the 18 and under genre. Don't get me wrong - I adore Harry Potter and am much looking forward to 'The Golden Compass', but where are the movies of fantasy and lore for those of us old enough to sip a bit of absinthe while viewing?

We need escape in forms other than abject violence and blatant sexuality. Some of us still revel in capes and candles, after all. A few I've delighted in over the years:

• Excalibur - One of my favourite sword and sorcery films with spectacular lighting.
• The Mists of Avalon - A feminine retelling of Camelot created for TNT with Angelica Huston (in dreadlocks, no less) as a captivating Vivienne.
• Stardust - Sublime Neil Gaiman creation (who understands well how much adults still need their magical fix) about a star that fell to the earth.
• Practical Magic - Two witchy sisters helping each other through bad love times with a little mojo.
• First Knight - Richard Gere made a fine Lancelot, but the best part of the movie is simply watching the ham antics of both Gere and Sean Connery. From an Arthurian perspective, terribly flawed - but still enjoyable.
• Beauty and the Beast - The restored masterpiece directed by Jean Cocteau is ethereal, seductive and dreamlike in presence and a must-have for any stormy, autumn evening. Chocolate Tea and an oversized velvet wrap, optional.
• Lord of the Rings Trilogy - Hands down my favourite adult fantasy movies of all time. Perfect in that it truly is a wonder for every age, despite the flaws inherent for any true Tolkien fan.

Enjoy!