Krull (film)
A 1983 British science-fantasy adventure with a cult following.
Krull is a 1983 British science-fantasy adventure film directed by Peter Yates and distributed by Columbia Pictures. The film follows Prince Colwyn and a fellowship of companions who set out to rescue his bride, Princess Lyssa, from a fortress of alien invaders on their home planet. Despite being a box-office bomb upon release, Krull has developed a cult following over the years.
Quick Facts
- Director
- Peter Yates
- Producer
- Ron Silverman
- Writer
- Stanford Sherman
- Starring
- Ken Marshall / Lysette Anthony / Freddie Jones / Francesca Annis
- Music
- James Horner
- Cinematography
- Peter Suschitzky
- Editing
- Ray Lovejoy
- Studio
- Columbia Pictures / Barclays Mercantile Industrial Finance Ltd.
- Distributor
- Columbia-EMI-Warner (UK)
- Runtime
- 121 minutes
- Country
- United Kingdom
- Language
- English
Facts from the source article.
Lore & Background
Development on Krull began in 1980 when Columbia Pictures President Frank Price gave producer Ron Silverman the idea to produce a fantasy film inspired by Dungeons and Dragons. Stanford Sherman wrote the initial screenplay, titled The Dragons of Krull, where the Beast was originally planned as a dragon. Steve Tesich later wrote a discarded second version. The film was shot at Pinewood Studios and on location in Italy and Spain, with creature effects by Nick Maley and a score by James Horner performed by the London Symphony Orchestra.
The plot follows Prince Colwyn (Ken Marshall) as he retrieves the magical Glaive and gathers a fellowship—including the Old One Ynyr, the magician Ergo, and a band of thieves—to rescue Princess Lyssa (Lysette Anthony) from the Beast's Black Fortress. The Beast and his Slayers have invaded the planet Krull, and the prophecy foretells that the son of the queen and king shall rule the galaxy. The film features supporting roles from early-career Liam Neeson and Robbie Coltrane.
Reader's Guide
Krull was released in the United States on 29 July 1983 and in the United Kingdom later that December. It was a box-office bomb, and critical opinion has been mixed, both upon release and in retrospect. Reviewers have highlighted its visual effects and soundtrack, while others have criticized its plot as derivative and nonsensical. However, in the years since its release, the film has developed a cult following. Its significance lies in its ambitious blend of science fiction and fantasy, its elaborate practical effects, and its place as an early showcase for actors like Liam Neeson and Robbie Coltrane. The film's legacy endures among genre enthusiasts who appreciate its unique aesthetic and earnest storytelling.
Did You Know?
- The film was originally titled The Dragons of Krull, and the Beast was initially planned to be a dragon.
- A monstrous snake woman was cut from the film because of similarities with Medusa in Clash of the Titans.
- Liam Neeson and Robbie Coltrane, still early in their film careers, appear in supporting roles.
- The film score was composed by James Horner and performed by the London Symphony Orchestra.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Krull (1983) about?
The film follows Prince Colwyn and a fellowship of companions on a quest to rescue his kidnapped bride, Princess Lyssa, from a fortress held by alien invaders on their home world. It blends sword-and-sorcery storytelling with sci-fi elements such as a talking cat and a dragon-like creature.
Who directed Krull?
Peter Yates directed the 1983 British science-fantasy adventure, which was distributed by Columbia Pictures and released theatrically in the United States on 29 July 1983.
Why did Krull fail at the box office?
Despite a $30 million production budget, the film could not recoup its costs during its 1983 theatrical run and is widely regarded as a box-office bomb. Over the years, however, it has grown a devoted cult following among genre fans.
What genre is Krull classified as?
Krull is typically labeled a science-fantasy adventure, weaving together sword-and-sorcery quest structure with science-fiction concepts like alien worlds and advanced technology. It is a 1983 British production.
Who is Krull in the film?
Krull is the alien antagonist who has seized Princess Lyssa and established a fortress on the heroes' home planet. The film's title refers to this villain rather than to the protagonist Prince Colwyn.
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