113. ‘80s Fantasy Part 5 – The Quest Ends: What Became of Fantasy Cinema?

Film Utopia’s epic 1980s Fantasy retrospective reaches its end as Steven, Benjamin, and Sean look beyond their beloved decade to see what became of the genre in the years that followed. From Disney’s magical 90s renaissance to Tim Burton’s gothic daydreams, through to Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter reviving the genre in the 00s, we briefly trace fantasy’s evolution and slow retreat into remakes, reboots and rehashes. There’s grumbling over The Hobbit, apprehension over The Hunt for Gollum, and tentative hope that Henry Cavill might manage to become “the only one” in the upcoming Highlander remake. Along the way, we wonder if modern fantasy has lost its daring spirit… and unanimously agree to return soon to tackle Middle-earth as a three man team. Join us for our reflective wrap-up to our summer quest through the worlds of 80s fantasy and what came after!