The Mists of Avalon

Why can't you just consider the movie as it is, without constant beratement as to how it's not exactly like the book?

I saw the movie last night for the first time, and found the story to be compelling, the acting to be top-notch, and the sets, costumes, and music to be a perfect match for the story. It was a wonderful film in an age where most science fiction and fantasy programs are full of plot holes and various nonsensical plot devices.

You KNOW that most movies based on books never live up to the book, so why do you place such high expectations on them?? Enjoy it for what it is -- 4 hours of visual entertainment.

I for one found it a very enjoyable movie, and would highly recommend it to anyone.

The legend of King Arthur has been retold enough times that no single version of it is sacred. This explores the notion that Arthur is king "at a time when the gods were changing" (to paraphrase James Michener) and that the mystical women of Avalon (and not Merlin) are the real force behind the events of Camelot. The attempt to unite pagans and Christians under one king may seem like a very contemporary issue, but it is a human universal and one that has been repeated throughout history.

It's a shame that most viewers will see this interrupted with commercials; it's a beautifully moody film with lots of excellent photography, sets, and costumes (even if the latter look a little too Medieval for accuracy). The performances are generally good, with a few over-the-top lines and gestures.

PARENTAL ADVISORY: This film contains violence and sexual situations unsuitable for children under 15. Additionally, it is sufficiently cerebral that anyone under that age might not be engaged by it and as such might not be appreciated by newcomers to this legend.

I was very excited when I learned that my favorite book, "The Mists of Avalon," was being made into a mini-series. Unfortunately, the title and characters were the only things this mini-series has in common with the book. Now I realize that this was a long book and that some parts of the storyline would have had to be sacrificed but there were major events and even a few main characters that were simply not there. The basic spirit of the story was gone and the storyline mangled almost beyond recognition. The book's author, Marion Zimmer Bradley, must surely be spinning in her grave. I believe she would be greatly disappointed with this adaptation of her truly wonderful and innovative tale of the women who were the real strength and power of Camelot. Do yourself a favor. Skip this mini-series and read the book.

Well its not the book at all, so if you are expecting that its better to dream. So much so that I think it should have a different name, like Excalibur II or something. But there were parts that kept to the book and so it goes. But oh man if you watch this and never read the book I feel sad for your loss. The book is a thrilling tale about change and fate. It delves into realms of religion and how one religion overcomes another. There are also sub plots of innocence, trust and the betrayal of trust. This show was more about the men and their lives. I had hoped that maybe someone would have the nerve to show a differing viewpoint but I suppose not yet. I am sad and so I lament. Please someone have the nerve to make this book as a movie as it is, not for the forwarding of a differing perception but because it is a beautiful book.

I have some advantage in NOT reading the book -therefore watched the movie in its own right . As it started off as a TV mini series - I decided to watch maybe half at one sitting , but hey , from the first 5 minutes it was just totally engrossing viewing , and I saw all 3 hours plus in one sitting . And what a story ! -The characters were clear and bold -the acting was just wonderful -almost Shakespearean at times in its intensity -The photography and scenery - just stunning - As a person with an interest in history and legends - I found the story line quite remarkable and perhaps the best retelling of the Arthurian legends I have encountered. The author of the book had so obviously done her homework .The soundtrack alone was worth the cost of the DVD . The depiction of the ancient mother earth religion is most beautiful to behold , and has to be a highlight of the movie for me . A GREAT movie indeed !