Les brumes d'Avalon

Fans of Marion Zimmer Bradley's book may wish to carry a barf bag for this one. I realize that time constraints will not allow for the detail that made Bradley's novel so striking. This does not, however, excuse changes that contradict the book. Important details are overlooked, though readers might be able to notice key lines and fill in the background. Overall, this was a very poor adaptation of the book with lackluster characterizations.

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.

The book is simply amazing and this film adaptation adequately embodies its epic stature. I am amazed how much of the book is actually reflected in a 2-hour television digest version. I really don't like spoilers and I always try to avoid giving away a story myself, so I will just say this movie can be enjoyed by either fans of Marion Zimmer Bradley's book or the uninitiated.

The scenery, cinematography and costumes are beautiful. The acting is generally very smart and understanding. The cast was well chosen. The writing is well-informed.

Some of the negative reviewers seem to be offended by sexual material and what they perceive as "anti-christian" content. Of course I would not try to change any of these people's opinions, but I would remind these reviewers of the story's point of view. The setting is in a largely non-Christian world and told from a feminine perspective. With virtually all other tellings being from a masculine, heroic, 15th century Christian perspective (despite the fact that the setting is actually 4th century pagan) I find this appealing for history's (her-story's) sake alone. Usually the "winners" write history. In this case I think Bradley is trying to tell the other side of the story.

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.