Widely viewed by commentators as one of the greatest family action adventure films ever made, this 1977 Swedish gem is a real find for any collector of such films. The acting is first rate, especially from the young lead, Lars Soderdahl, who has that rare quality of being able to make the audience feel what his character (Skorpan) is feeling, without even speaking. The story is adorable; It is of two brothers, one of whom is terminally ill, their love for each other, and their adventures after death. Technically this film is excellent, and fans of creature features will be thrilled with special effects that rival the work of Ray Harryhausen. Be prepared for the fact that this is a Swedish Family action adventure, and not the cutesie type of 'safe' fare that American audiences have been treated to by the Domestic film industry. Enjoy the ride.
... View MoreSweden is known for its gorgeous landscapes, freezy weather and all that snow (very christmassy), for mythical music (thanks to legendary names such as ABBA, Ace of Base and Roxette), for producing some of the world's finest and safest cars (Volvo and Saab), for its beautiful women and for not having joined the Euro (a very right and clever decision), only to name a few examples.This is probably one of the most remembered Swedish films, particularly in its native country, where it is especially significant and even won awards. As to why it isn't in other places, I believe it has to do with people's general lack of knowledge on foreign cinema. People's obsession and fixation on American cinema surprises me, being such that they often forget that other countries and cultures have their own cinema. That can also be because there are so many really good movies that are hard to find and this is one of them.The cinematography on this is some of the most beautiful I've ever laid my eyes on. The story and pacing are practically perfect and the movie is touching. The dragon Katla looks hilariously dated and almost resembles one of those strange creatures from 'Star Wars'. Its animation is purely mechanical and would be considered by many as too crude for nowadays's ultra-demanding standards but was effective for its time and still is for those who don't care about progress. The soundtrack, especially the main theme, is somewhat odd but haunting.The main actors who portray the brothers are authentic. The younger is tenderly called "Skorpan" by the older. "Skorpan" means "Rusk", which has different meanings (apparently): a light, soft-textured sweetened biscuit; a sweet raised bread dried and browned in an oven.The story is about the Lionheart Brothers. "Skorpan" is very ill and won't live much longer, but his older brother Jonatan tries to calm him down and convince him that death might not be such a bad thing, as he will go to a beautiful place. Very shortly after, Jonatan dies while saving "Skorpan" from a house fire and "Skorpan" dies not long after. As promised by Jonatan, they meet in the beautiful land and "Skorpan" is strong and healthy. Together they go through moments of peace and tenderness, but they also face risky adventures and fight against evil knights to save the magnificent land.Technically the movie is distinguish and unique. What other movie has the sophisticated sepia-tone, bright colors and the classic black and white? And all in the same movie! You name me one which combines all these techniques.This should definitely be on Top 250.
... View MoreOne of the greatest movie I've ever seen in my life about two brothers who'd die suddenly, other one in fire and the other of illness. After the death the brothers, meet in Nangijala, the country of magic and power, and it seems that they can have the most wonderful time of they're life without all worries and illness. But when the Black Knight Tengil, threat the people of Nangijala, the brothers help the freedom people to fight against the home rule.Bröderna Lejonhjärta is one of the greatest movie I've seen in my life, and too one of the most touching movies you'll ever see. Check this one.
... View MoreI had the privilege of owning this movie when I was a child. I think that my parents bought it from some video store that was going out of business. It was on a BetaMax tape, and was dubbed in English. I had to of watched this movie at least once week. The story is great, and the relationship between the two brothers is rather touching. Despite the fact that even as a child the dragon (who used to remind me of "the secret weapon" from An American Tale) looked terrible, it was one of my favorite movies for years. If anyone can find a copy of this movie, I suggest you watch it. Also, the synthesized soundtrack is quite good (arpeggios reminiscent of Philip Glass or something).
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