The series continuation of the fantasy film “Willow” (1988) has been available on the Disney streaming service since November 30th. The sequel ties in many ways to the strip from over 30 years ago. For example, Ron Howard (68), the director of the original, is the producer this time. The most striking parallel is probably the main actor: Warwick Davis (52) can be seen again as the small magician Willow Ufgood and has to save his world from evil.
In the 80s original, Willow kidnaps little Elora to save her from the evil Queen Bavmorda (Jean Marsh, 88). Among other things, the warrior Madmartigan (Val Kilmer, 62) helps him. Bavmorda’s daughter Sorsha (Joanne Whalley, 61) initially fights Willow. However, realizing her mother’s malice, she falls in love with Madmartigan and switches sides. In the final fight, Willow is able to deceive the evil queen with a trick and she accidentally destroys herself. After that, Sorsha and Madmartigan raise little Elora together and Willow returns to his village.
A group around the now adult Elora (Ellie Bamber, 25) is now looking for him in the series. This time her brother has been kidnapped by evil forces and she asks Willow for help. After all, her mother Queen Sorsha (again Joanne Whalley) is unable to stop the opponent. The now significantly aged Willow sets off on a new adventure. In the trailer, the protagonists meet trolls, go through portals and constantly get into trouble.
The original from 1988 based on a story by “Star Wars” creator George Lucas (78) was not consistently well received. Two Oscar nominations (Best Sound Editing, Best Visual Effects) stand against two Golden Raspberry Award nominations (Worst Screenplay, Worst Supporting Actor). It is all the more astonishing that there is now an eight-part mini-series about it. But the brand has its fans.
On the “Rotten Tomatoes” review platform, only 53 percent of the critics’ votes are positive, but there are 79 positive reviews from the public. The fantasy strip enjoys cult status. It will be interesting to see whether the new series will have a similar echo.
