WILLOW: 1988 FANTASY FILM MAY BE NEW SERIES ON DISNEY!

One of my favorite movies of the 1980s may get a green light on Disney.

The cult-classic fantasy movie Willow (directed by Ron Howard) might be revived as a series for the upcoming Disney+ streaming service.

According to Deadline, Howard has said Jon Kasdan -- who worked with Howard as a writer on Solo: A Star Wars Story -- has been pushing for a reboot on Disney+. Apparently, Howard and George Lucas have long talked about the potential for a Willow series, which might give them an opportunity to build on existing characters.

The original story follows a farmer who protects a special baby from a tyrannical queen set on taking over the world. Lucas developed the idea in the early 70s and later asked Howard to direct it.

The film wasn't necessarily a blockbuster, but it did win two Academy Award nominations and attracted a loyal fan base. Read More

CLASSIC MOVIES: WILLOW 1988 DIRECTED BY RON HOWARD

Warwick Davis as Willow

Willow is a 1988 American high fantasy film directed by Ron Howard, produced and with a story by George Lucas, and starring Warwick Davis, Val Kilmer, Joanne Whalley, Jean Marsh, and Billy Barty.

Davis plays the eponymous lead character and hero: a reluctant farmer who plays a critical role in protecting a special baby from a tyrannical queen who vows to destroy her and take over the world in a high fantasy setting. soap2day

Val Kilmer as Madmartigan

Lucas conceived the idea for the film in 1972, approaching Howard to direct during the post-production phase of Cocoon in 1985. Bob Dolman was brought in to write the screenplay, coming up with seven drafts before finishing in late 1986. It was then set up at Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer and principal photography began in April 1987, finishing the following October.

The majority of filming took place at Elstree Studios in Hertfordshire, England, as well as Wales and New Zealand. Industrial Light & Magic created the visual effects sequences, which led to a revolutionary breakthrough with digital morphing technology.

The film was released in 1988 to mixed reviews from critics, but was a modest financial success, received two Academy Award nominations, and has developed a cult following amongst fantasy fans. Full Cast and Crew

UNCOVERING THE FANTASY AND MAGIC OF ALEXANDER GIRARD

Cranbrook Art Museum Presents the Symposium 

"Uncovering the Fantasy and Magic

of Alexander Girard"

Saturday, July 22, from 1-4pm

A fascinating examination of one of the most influential, yet overlooked, designers of modernism in America, Alexander Girard. Historian Deborah Kawsky will introduce us to Girard’s Detroit days—from his modern design shop in Grosse Pointe to the architecture of his lesser known residences. 

Curbed’s national architecture critic, Alexandra Lange, will discuss Girard’s uncanny ability to bring structure to seemingly disparate things, from found artifacts to city streetscapes. Curator Monica Obniski will look at Girard’s prescient collection and use of folk art as an inspiration and antidote to modern design. A moderated discussion and question-and-answer session will follow the presentations.

Symposium: Uncovering the Fantasy and Magic of Alexander Girard
Saturday, July 22, 1-4pm
Free with Museum admission. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Future events include:

Alexander Girard Family Day
Saturday, August 12, 11am-3pm
A day filled with Girard-themed tours and activities! Kids under 12 are always free at Cranbrook Art Museum.

Just announced!
A Conversation in the Conversation Pit
Sunday, September 10, 1pm
Join us for a Girard-inspired conversation with legendary textile artist Ruth Adler Schnee and Historian Deborah Kawsky. Free with Museum admission.

This exhibition is organized by the Vitra Design Museum, Weil am Rhein, Germany. Global sponsors are Herman Miller and Maharam.