by 
Stardust
It’s hard to imagine that there’s someone out there who hasn’t seen Stardust, but if there is, then I have one thing to say, “Go rent it.”
For me, summer is about having fun, enjoying life, hanging out with family and friends, and watching funny movies. This is one of my favorite lighthearted films. It’s based on Neil Gaiman’s book Stardust
Brief Summary
Tristan sets out on a quest to bring the woman he loves a fallen star. He has one week.
When he crosses the wall that separates his English village of Wall from a magical, fairy world, he steps into a hornet’s nest. Three evil witches want the fallen star to eat her heart. Yes, the star is a girl. The king sends his sons after the star to get the royal locket she wears. The king’s sons hunt the star and systematically kill each other. Each son is determined to possess the locket and become king.
Everyone but Tristan wants to kill her; however, if she crosses the wall that separates her world from his, she’ll die. So in reality, everyone is out to kill her.
Taking her hostage, Tristan sets out on his journey. Later, he acts as her protector as they make their way back to the wall. Along the way, they are pursued by the princes, the witches, and others. Somewhere along the way, they fall in love.
Star-Studded, Zany, Steampunk, Fairy Tale
What I love about this movie is its silliness. It’s a mad romp. If you want serious, this movie’s not for you. It’s hyperactive, with non-stop action. Plus, it’s violent and scary as all fairy tales should be.
And perhaps my favorite aspect, there are many references to Shakespeare, including Robert De Niro’s character, Captain Shakespeare, the cross-dressing captain of a flying pirate ship; Michelle Pfeiffer, one of three witches who are reminiscent of the witches in Macbeth; Peter O’Toole, the King, who, like King Lear, sets his children against each other with deadly consequences.
My Favorite and Not So Favorite Things
I think everyone would agree that Robert De Niro steals the show in this one. What could be more fun than watching Captain Shakespeare dress up in a ruffled dress and a boa while dancing and singing? Nothing that I can think of. The cross-dressing captain is definitely my favorite.
My not so favorite: Clare Danes as Yvaine, the star turned girl. My daughter isn’t going to agree with me on this one, but Danes is a rather bland actor and doesn’t shine as bright as I think a star should. Someone with more bounce and cheer would have been better for the part.
But perhaps seeing the beautiful Michelle Pfeiffer fall apart and turn into an old hag, makes up for a less than sparkling star/girl.
The Usual Reminders:
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