Grendel Grendel Grendel

Grendel Grendel Grendel from 1981 is a beautifully crafted animated musical adaptation of the classic medieval epic poem "Beowulf," retold from the perspective of the poem's antagonist, the fierce yet tragic monster, Grendel. The film, directed by Alexander Stitt and based on the stage play by John Gardner, is a colorful and surreal journey through a fantastical world filled with larger-than-life characters, moral quandaries, and existential musings.

The film opens with Grendel (voiced by Peter Ustinov) waking up in his cave, annoyed by the humans who live in the nearby kingdom of Hrothgar (Keith Michell) and their constant partying and revelry. Grendel has always been an outcast due to his appearance and perceived savageness, but he is also intelligent and introspective. He spends his days contemplating the meaning of his existence, as well as the nature of good and evil.

As the story unfolds, we see Grendel interact with various characters, from the blind and wise dragon (Arthur Dignam) who serves as his mentor, to the beautiful and naive human girl Wealtheow (Eartha Kitt) who tries to befriend him. Grendel also has encounters with Hrothgar himself, as well as his loyal warrior Beowulf (also voiced by Keith Michell), who seek to destroy him and rid their kingdom of the supposed monster terrorizing them.

The animation style of the film stands out for its vivid use of colors and shapes, which evoke both the psychedelic imagery of the 60s and 70s and the intricate motifs of medieval art. The characters are designed in a way that emphasizes their symbolic and allegorical functions rather than their realistic portrayal, with Grendel himself being a hulking yet melancholic figure with glowing eyes and elongated limbs. The music, composed by Bruce Smeaton, is also a highlight of the film, featuring catchy and poignant songs that blend rock, jazz, and Latin influences.

What makes Grendel Grendel Grendel so compelling is how it subverts the traditional hero narrative and offers a nuanced exploration of empathy and compassion. While the humans in the story see Grendel as a monster to be slayed, the film sympathizes with his struggles and his internal conflicts. Grendel is not a bloodthirsty creature, but rather a lonely and misunderstood being who craves connection and acceptance. The story invites the audience to question their own prejudices and assumptions, and to see beyond appearances and stereotypes.

Overall, Grendel Grendel Grendel is a visually stunning and thought-provoking retelling of a classic tale, told from a fresh and unexpected perspective. It is a must-see for fans of animation, fantasy, and literary adaptations.