Review: Willow (2022)

The magic returns as an unlikely group of new heroes embark on a quest to save their home in the new television series Willow. Warwick Davis returns as the title character with a fresh and younger cast in the Disney Plus series.

Growing up, Willow was the perfect high-fantasy Sunday afternoon movie. A warm and cozy feeling always surrounded the Ron Howard and George Lucas 1988 classic, and the TV series is no different. I was given the first three episodes to watch, and I was pleasantly surprised to find the “new” story is just as enchanting as the film.

The series takes place twenty years after the film ends. When a threat hits the kingdom, a new group of misfits, led by Ruby Cruz as Kit and Erin Kellyman as Jade, must go on a quest to save the prince and their home.

The series starts off rocky, but a huge reveal at the end sets the tone for the series and levels the first episode. Much like the film, the series is still a fun fantasy adventure that holds a sense of whimsy and nostalgia. The only thing separating the two is the dialogue. The series has a bit of an anachronistic tone to the characters, making it feel very “Gen Z,” but this is a welcome change. At first, I was worried the series would sound like one long TikTok video, but after the initial shock of the dialogue, it became second nature, and felt more grounded. It truly sets the stage for the series to become a beloved tale for this century.

After the second episode, I loved the new cast of characters. Each one is unique and strong. One thing I have recently appreciated is the number of strong female leads in the Disney Plus shows. Willow has multiple leading ladies that will surely inspire a younger generation of women.

Like most of the series on the streaming service, it’s a slow start. The story is charming, but it does need a three-episode watch to be fully appreciated. With an 8 episode arc, I wonder what the future holds for the quest these characters are on.

Willow, the series is just as fun and enchanting as the original film. The show starts off rocky but levels out towards the end of the first episode. Appreciating the humor, story, and anachronistic dialogue may take a few episodes, but it’s worth the wait. There is a nostalgic presence for those who were around for the film debut. The magic and charm of Willow sets the stage to become a new beloved tale for a younger generation.

You can stream Willow on Disney Plus now!