Blueghost They always say never judge a book by its cover. Well, the truth is we all do, even though we know better. Some do it more than others. Me? Well, I guess I'm no different.I saw this movie listed on my "You might like this" list at one of the DVD websites, and, after scoffing at it here and there, wondering what kid of film would have such unimpressive DVD cover art (technically very good, but nothing unique) for a title I'd never heard of? After a while I became curious, dismissed it, then became curious again, until I finally broke down a bought a copy.It was pleasantly enjoyable for what it was. The sets, costumes and even the acting were respectable and entertaining. The truth is this is a kids' flick, so you can't really expect true-to-history swordsmanship and all that went with it. It's meant to tell a tale of knights and chivalry to youngsters who are into that sort of thing. And the film does so successfully.I have no great love for the film, but I appreciate it for what it is, and even then I think it's A quality flick in terms of historic children's' fair. Respectably shot, though somewhat skidding a rough gray area of prosaic and inspired lensing, the film achieves a certain artistry that might be compared to some of the black and white classics in terms of shot composition. But maybe that's getting too high- falutin' for film meant for younger ages.There's some contemporary pop culture references, and the acting is a little over done, but again it's all aimed at younger audiences.The one interesting aspect was to see Patrick Swayze in a historic/fantasy film. One is so used to seeing him in films dipped in Americana that it almost almost seemed out of place for a middle aged Texan to be donning chain mail and strapping on a sword. But, he's an actor. That's his job. He can be anybody. Does he succeed? He sure does. He's in the same thespian league as the rest of the cast.It's an entertaining little film that should put grins on young boys and girls alike on a lazy weekend. If my adult side had a serious criticism, well, I'll just keep those to myself :-)Not a big favorite of mine, but something that shows that a film in this genre can succeed. It's a film that despite being aimed at younger viewers, shows that there's more than enough story material that can be eeked out of a period that's very unfamiliar to most people. In fact this film didn't need all the theatrics and SFX had it been aimed at an older crowd. It shows how this kind of stuff is truly interesting to people... dragons or no.With that in mind, give it a chance.Enjoy with the family :-)

Amy Adler George (James Purefoy) has just returned from the crusades, with a Moorish friend, Tarik (Michael Clarke Duncan) with him. It is George's fondest wish to return to his village and acquire a cottage, a small plot of land and a wife. Not so Tarik; thus, they part company. Meanwhile, the king (Simon Callow) is in distress, for his beautiful daughter, Princess Lunna (Piper Perabo) is missing. No one knows the truth, that she has been kidnapped by a dragon for "company". Upon arriving at his father's house, however, George learns that his father wants him to "slay" the last dragon, if there is such a creature, before he, George, settles down. Dad gives George a "dragon horn", one that only the fiery ones can hear, to help locate the beast. Not wanting to disappoint his papa, off goes George. But, his search is constantly interrupted. First, Princess Lunna's arrogant suitor (Patrick Swayze) is searching for the beautiful princess, too, so that he can solidify his future riches and stature. He seems to find George a rival for the young woman's affections. And, second, Princess Lunna is guarding a dragon egg, after its mother dies, and she doesn't want any dragon slayers finding her or her treasure. She ESPECIALLY never wants to see her handsome former suitor for she detests him. From hill to valley to monastery to cave, who will find the princess? This is a very handsome film, with a nice cast and plenty of action. That's good, for the plot zigs and zags like a bee searching for honey. Its very hard to keep the story straight, so only older children will probably enjoy it. The actors are fine, with Purefoy making an excellent hero and Perabo giving the princess spunk, brains, and beauty. As the main "heavy", Swayze does a good job while Duncan makes the most of his smaller role, too. Callow and Joan Plowright add some nice sophistication to the movie as well. One could say, naturally, that the middle ages never looked as nice as this but most will be enchanted by the stunning art direction. There is also some modern twists for the old St. George legend so be prepared for some changes to the traditional versions. In addition, there is a good deal of violence, although it is of the mild variety, so heed this warning if it is important to you. But, in short, if you have a fantasy loving family who clamor for magical movies, this one should fit the bill.

gee-15 I had been reading about this movie for a while and thought the idea of a humorous retelling of the legend of George and the dragon had some potential. However, the film was never widely released. Then I was watching Sci Fi Channel on a boring Saturday and suddenly this movie appeared (under the generic name of "Dragon Sword"). I quickly realized this was the "George and the Dragon" movie I'd been wanting to see. However, I didn't have very high expectations.But ultimately, it's not that bad. It has some major problems. The plot becomes a bit incoherent at times. The editing is NOT good. The special effects are NOT good (and I'm not really that picky about such things). However, the actors lift it slightly above mediocrity. James Purefoy is fun to watch as the war-weary knight who just wants "an acre and two head of cows" and finds himself on a rather odd journey. Piper Perabo is cute as the spunky princess (though they never adequately explain why she is so obsessed with dragons). Their relationship follows the usual path of such movies: antagonism followed by mutual attraction. The supporting players are pretty good as well.Keep your expectations low and you'll enjoy the movie. It could have been a lot better but it's pretty high quality for the Sci Fi Channel.

polingsj I absolutely loved this movie! It was a light highly entertaining film, one that you can sit down and watch at any time. James Purefoy was absolutely amazing. I have always been a big fan of his, but he really shines in this film. He is the epitome of what a leading man should be. The entire cast was splendid, especially the parts of the skateboarding priest! The only character that was slightly disappointing was Patrick Swayze's character. I had not seen Patrick in a film for a long time and I was slightly disappointed with him in this. He didn't seem to really become the character he was playing. He seemed awkward throughout the film. Like the character did not really suit him. But aside from that I loved the film. It was so nice to see a movie where the whole family can sit down and watch it. There was no cussing, no sex, no gore. It was an action packed, romantic, wholesome family movie. On a little side note and responding to a review I had read earlier, this movie is in fact based on a children's book. It is titled Saint George and the Dragon and is by Margaret Hodges. I used to love this book when I was little and having seen it come to life on the big screen made the movie all the more special. I would recommend it to everyone who enjoys a funny sci-fi thriller with a happy ending.