Passion. Mysticism. Adventure. Journey beyond the legend of Camelot.
As the story begins, the people of the British Isles fight valiantly against barbarian invasion. Their struggle for survival leaves little time to mend the growing schism between the new Christian faith and the old pagan religion that has long preserved the kingdom. Viviane (Anjelica Huston), the Lady of the Lake, presides as high priestess on the mist-shrouded isle of Avalon, the pagan seat of power, and a mystical world invisible to nonbelievers. But as Christianity gains hold over England and more people turn away from the goddess, this mysterious land becomes difficult for even the faithful to reach.
Viviane plans to save Avalon by anointing and training her niece, Morgaine (Julianna Margulies), as her successor, manipulating the royal lineage to produce Arthur (Edward Atterton), a king who will embrace both pagan beliefs and Christianity, thus saving Avalon.
Secret Agent Acid Thunder
I like epics. I like fantasies, too. The legends of Camelot have been done before with a similar amount of historical accuracy (and artistic license) but this time it's all about the women, not the sword-wielding, bloodthirsty blokes. Fortunately, the whole concept came from a woman, so that saves Mists of Avalon from falling into the whole soft porn thing... heaving breasts, mighty cleavage, long, oiled legs, etc., etc.
The violence is only there because it's part of the story, not because it's time for some blood and gore while the story is all about the fates of yin and yang in the creation of England's greatest hero. I liked it: it's both fun and sad and it stirred both his emotions and his loins. Jump in and enjoy.
M (Low level violence, adult themes, sexual references)
176 minutes (2:56 hours)
DVD retail: 6 February 2002