Sometimes you want to watch some fantasy cinema without becoming invested in a grand epic that requires several hours. Herein lies a dilemma, because the genre isn't generally a hot ticket item with major studios, so watching something one hasn't seen before likely means engaging with something second-tier, if not also low-budget. Then there's the issue of building a complete, absorbing world for one's tale within the limited time that a single feature allows. None of this is to say that pictures produced without substantial financial backing can't be fun - the 'Mythica' series was partly crowdfunded, and I for one absolutely loved it - but potential viewers must necessarily consider the range and limits of their personal preferences. With that said, I think 'SAGA: Curse of the shadow' has at least a few things going for it, not least of which is that it was written by Jason Faller and Kynan Griffin, both of whom went on to work on the 'Mythica' series. Though in some measure this feels like the duo were cutting their teeth before the larger project, it's nonetheless a duly compelling story that should satiate fans of fantasy.
Earnest and well-made such as it is, one need ever bear in mind those factors mentioned above that constrain the movie. Aerial shots meant to impart the grandeur of the world, and the breadth of the heroes' journey, exhibit familiar landscapes; our suspension of disbelief is weakened thusly, and in specific scenes taking place within those landscapes. There's a glaring inauthenticity in some scenes as a sky or landscape, or the combination thereof, is far too vibrant to be real. The naming of proper nouns takes clear inspiration from a certain other recognizable high fantasy series, as well as the characterization of some specific figures, and even some shots or sequences. Hair and makeup, and costume design, are broadly quite good - well considered, and visually fetching - though like the special effects, the more the camera hones in on them, the easier it is to pick them apart. Dialogue is mostly fine, but there are unquestionably instances that are a little too blunt and on-the-nose, and this is also true in some cases where plot development is concerned - though in fairness, again the matter of working within the timeframe of a single title.
Even taking into account all possible shortcomings, however, 'SAGA' has no intent but to be an entertaining exploration of a beloved genre, and I believe it achieves that aim, and does so sincerely. Composer Panu Aaltio's music sometimes recalls well-known and memorable themes from elsewhere, but is nonetheless very enjoyable as it helps to build the mood for a given scene. Fight choreography and stunts actually look really great, and are surely among the top highlights of the film. Filmmaker John Lyde is no stranger to pictures of this nature, creating outside the studio system, and in wearing hats here as director, cinematographer, and editor he ably demonstrates his capabilities in all these capacities. And, though restricted by a few factors - including writing that demands conveyance of a narrative over utmost artfulness; and heavy makeup, and burdensome prosthetics and costumes that must be compensated for - I like the cast. I think they give performances that are in the least suitable for the material, and in some instances illustrate range, nuance, and physicality that show they could hold their own in more purely dramatic pictures. Primarily, I think of Danielle C. Ryan, who I've seen in a few movies now, and I detect in her a strength and determination that's admirable.
I repeat myself, but 'SAGA: Curse of the shadow' isn't a movie to watch for those seeking the pinnacle of storytelling or film-making. It's a really good time, I think, and as adeptly realized as it could have been, but operates within a particular space. All told, however, as the credits roll I find myself wishing we could have gotten more features with these characters, because I want to know more about them and their world. If that doesn't speak well to a fantasy film's craft, then I don't know what does. Recommendable especially as a reasonably satisfying fantasy romp for a lazy, quiet day, 'Curse of the shadow' scratches that itch for me, and earns my thumbs-up.
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