Pop Culture Movies and More: Hawk the Slayer (1980)

Once upon a time, long ago, there were two brothers. Hawk, the younger brother, was destined for greatness, possessing gifts of strength, honour, duty and justice. Voltan, the elder brother, is a man of cruel perversion, who bore the mask of Cain. Hideously deformed, Voltan roams the land under a black mask so none could look upon his ghastly face. When their father is killed in cold blood by the hands of his firstborn Voltan, Hawk swears his vengeance. Into Hawk's hand, his dying father places the magic mind-sword and Hawk has not only his father's death to avenge... Accompanied by a band of warriors compiled of a giant, a dwarf, a one-armed man with a machine crossbow, an elf with the fastest bow in the land and a witch, they take on the evil forces led by Voltan. I adore this film despite what other people say and it is one of my all-time favourites. It can be described as one of the best bad movies but personally, it's just a great deal of fun. There are so many cool ideas and elements in this film that explore the genre of sword and sorcery to its fullest. There is a lot of banter between characters to enjoy most notably from the giant and dwarf who are a lot of fun and the trust between the elf and Hawk solidifies the team. They are all so likeable and fun to watch, making us care for these characters as they fight for all that is good. Not only are they entertaining, but they can also be serious and cool in moments involving stand-offs and battles. I loved seeing them help out whoever they came by, saving and putting an end to wrongdoers. Voltan is also a terrific villain and has an engaging rivalry with his brother Hawk. One of the most iconic and my favourite aspect has to be the magical mind-sword that flies to Hawk's hand that has a stone clasped by the hand-like hilt which glows bright green. It most certainly has to be up there with the coolest weapons from the world of cinema I have ever seen, it just screams awesome. The effect used to make the sword look like it flies into his hand is very reminiscent of the force, an energy field used by the Jedi in the Star Wars franchise, which allows them to move any object with their minds. I am always reminded of it whenever Hawk calls the sword. I also love the sound they play every time it soars to his hand, which just makes it all the better. The 80s synth chimes and pieces scattered throughout the film are brilliant and are frequently used when Hawk intends to fight, using the magical mind-sword and it gives me chills. Yes, I am the kind of guy who relishes 80s synth sounds and especially in these kinds of movies. This film has quite a unique vibe and feels, reminiscent of other similar movies like Flash Gordon (1980), The Beastmaster (1982) and Krull (1983) that are equally worthy of viewing if you enjoyed this. They are nothing like the films of today and are likely never to be captured in their entertaining fashion and style again. Hawk the Slayer is a very early 80s flick released in the year 1980 and has that creative wonder from films of that decade, well at least for me it does. The film has been known to show up on YouTube, hopefully not being removed and in good quality so definitely go check it out if you get the chance as it is fabulous especially with it being free to watch. I personally have the DVD copy, which I was given by my dad that is now a treasured addition to my collection. The music is certainly another highlight of this film with the theme song being my favourite piece that I would listen to on repeat. It sounds so magical and has that synthesizer sound I previously mentioned used in it, which I am a huge fan of. I have added it down below for you to listen to. I would even play the song whilst out for a walk on a foggy day to remind me of the film, I love those mystical vibes it gives you. Overall, this film is just a blast and such fun to watch that I simply must recommend it with there being so much to enjoy from this 80s cult classic. The characters are entertaining and the effects look so cool, just ignore the low-budget aspects and you will lose yourself in the wonder and magic.