.There may be no bigger icon of early 80s cinema than “The NeverEnding Story.” One of the first movies I loved as a very young child, and it still holds up today.
The 1984 fantasy film was a German production. It’s based on a book by German writer Michael Ende. Directed by German filmmaker Wolfgang Peterson. Produced by Bernd Eichinger and Dieter Giessler. The German title is “Die Unendliche Geschichte.” Doesn’t have quite the same ring. And it’s the German to English translation that may play a hand in the uncanny tones the movie gives off.
Ten-year-old Bastian (Barret Oliver) is a typical 80s dweeb who lives inside his own head. Bastian loves books, reading, and doodling unicorns. While hiding out from a group of bullies, he gets his hands on the titular tome. Bastian and the viewer are transported to the mystical land of Fantasia. A land with bizarre creatures and terrifying monsters. A place where a young warrior named Atreyu (Noah Hathaway) is about to embark on a quest. A quest to save the world.
What I noticed as an adult is the truly depressing state of the story. Bastian’s mother has recently passed away, and Bastian and his father (Gerald McRaney) are struggling with the loss. Bastian is constantly tormented by a trio of bullies. The fantasy realm of Fantasia isn’t much better. Atreyu’s mission is to defeat an ambiguous and destructive presence that’s literally described as a manifestation of the loss of mankind’s hopes and dreams. If that isn’t enough, Atreyu is stalked by a hideous wolf-monster referred to as G’mork who’s scary enough to give anyone nightmares. Much of the dialogue is heavy. Some of the concepts and scenes are brutal. I don’t know what my parents were thinking, but this may be one to keep away from small children.
The lack of CGI makes for some pretty amazing characters. The land of Fantasia is inhabited by an assortment of beings that would fit into any early 80s type scene. Rock Biters, Racing Snails, Luck Dragons. The imagination of the writers and cinematography of the film make for a memorable escape. The score is also a great compliment. The title song by Limahl is a staple for the decade. The score itself Klaus Doldinger adds sentiment where needed.
“The NeverEnding Story” successfully captures nostalgia. A film like this would never be produced today. That’s part of what makes it so special. It’s unintentionally creepy with costumes and special effects. The story itself is wrought with emotion. The run time is smooth and the story, while farfetched, is engrossing. Even the acting of the young stars is solid.
“The NeverEnding Story” holds up 37 years later as a great representative of 1980s film. Its thoroughly deserving of its iconic status.
