The Princess Bride (2000, DVD)

(For those who are wondering, the difference between the 2000 and 2001 releases is that the 2001 is a "special edition" with additional features, but nothing Earth-shattering. The story is the thing, originally released in 1987.)

The Princess Bride is a story within a story with some of the most unforgettable characters ever created. Don't let the fairy-tale title fool you. This is a clever, quick-witted comedy loaded with sharp barbs and impressive details. It is one of those rare instant classics that entertains different ages at different levels, and gets better each time you watch it.

The film's legendary cast includes Cary Elwes, Robin Wright(Penn), Andre the Giant, Shawn Wallace, Mandy Patinkin, Billy Crystal, Carol Kane, Christopher Guest, and Chris Sarandon. Peter Falk and a young Fred Savage round out the cast in the wraparound story of a grandfather visiting his sick grandson.

As the grandfather says, this is a story of "fencing, fighting, torture, revenge, giants, monsters, chases, escapes, true love, miracles..." Not a moment lags. The rapid-fire banter between characters is impeccably-timed, and as often quoted as Monty Python and the Holy Grail.

My favorite part of the movie is the duel at the top of the Cliffs of Insanity. Beside some genuinely fine swordsmanship, few people realize that the conversation Wesley and Inigo are having so courteously as they battle to the death is chock full of references to real-life master swordsmen of centuries past. Every detail of this scene is pure entertainment perfection, right down to the background music and sound effects.

The Princess Bride is a rich blend of comedy, action, adventure and romance. It is a prized part of my movie collection, and truly a must-have for any aficionado of fine wit. You'll watch it again and again.

To do otherwise would be ... INCONCEIVABLE!