Legend (1985)

The Nomads of Fantasy

Legend (1985) is a dark fantasy film directed by Ridley Scott. Set in a mythical, timeless world, it tells the story of the eternal struggle between good and evil. The movie stars Tom Cruise, Mia Sara, and Tim Curry.

In this fantasy world, Jack (played by Tom Cruise), a young forest dweller, is in love with Princess Lili (Mia Sara). The two encounter unicorns, magical creatures whose existence maintains light and goodness in the world. However, Lili's curiosity and innocence lead her to touch one of the unicorns, which allows the villain, Darkness (played by Tim Curry), to begin his plan to cast the world into eternal night.

Darkness aims to capture and kill the unicorns to extinguish the light, leading to a race against time. Jack, aided by magical creatures and companions, must stop Darkness, rescue Princess Lili, and save the world from eternal darkness.

Key Themes and Features:

• Good vs. Evil: The central conflict revolves around the classic struggle between light and darkness.
• Visual Style: The film is praised for its stunning cinematography, intricate sets, and atmospheric effects, creating a dreamlike, ethereal world.
• Tim Curry’s Performance: Tim Curry's portrayal of Darkness is iconic, featuring elaborate makeup and a menacing presence that has made the character memorable.
• Fantasy Elements: The film is filled with magical creatures such as goblins, fairies, and dwarves, contributing to its otherworldly feel.

Although Legend did not perform well at the box office initially, it gained a cult following over the years, particularly for its visuals, score, and the performances of its leads. There are different versions of the film, including a U.S. release with a score by Tangerine Dream and an international version with a Jerry Goldsmith score.