Revisiting Willow | The Movie, the Magic and the Disney+ Series

"There is a peck here with an acorn pointed at me."

If you recognize that reference, you're probably exactly the kind of person who will enjoy this week's episode.

Steve and Brad return to one of the most beloved fantasy films of the late 1980s as they revisit Willow and compare it with the more recent Disney+ series that brought the story back to life for a new generation.

Released in 1988, Willow arrived during a golden age of fantasy filmmaking. Conceived by George Lucas and directed by Ron Howard, the film combined adventure, humor, magic and heart into a story that developed a devoted following over the decades.

At its center was Warwick Davis as Willow Ufgood, an unlikely hero tasked with protecting a special child destined to change the fate of the world. Alongside him was one of the great rogues of 1980s fantasy cinema, Madmartigan, played with irresistible charisma by Val Kilmer.

The discussion revisits many of the film's memorable moments, from epic battles and magical transformations to some of the funniest lines in fantasy-movie history. Decades later, Willow remains a favorite among fans who grew up during the era when fantasy adventures ruled the multiplex.

Of course, the episode doesn't stop with the original film.

Steve and Brad also examine the Disney+ series that returned audiences to the world of Willow. The conversation explores what the show gets right, how it expands the mythology and whether it captures the spirit that made the original movie so beloved.

Like many Stuck in the ’80s movie reviews, the discussion balances nostalgia with a fresh perspective. Some aspects of Willow have aged remarkably well. Others reflect the filmmaking styles and storytelling conventions of the era. Together, they help explain why the movie continues attracting new fans more than three decades after its release.

The result is a celebration of one of the most charming fantasy adventures of the MTV era and a thoughtful look at its modern successor.

If you grew up quoting Madmartigan, cheering for Willow or secretly wishing you had your own magic wand, this episode belongs in your playlist.

The Stuck in the ’80s Podcast has spent nearly 20 years celebrating the music, movies, television and pop culture of the greatest decade ever. Support the show on Patreon for bonus episodes, exclusive livestream hangouts, behind-the-scenes content and merch for longtime listeners.

One thing we've learned from years of hosting trivia aboard The 80s Cruise is that fantasy fans travel in packs. Mention Willow, The Princess Bride or Excalibur, and suddenly you've got a crowd swapping favorite scenes and quoting dialogue. That's one of the joys of the cruise: discovering that your obscure pop-culture obsession isn't obscure at all. Use promo code STUCK when booking your cabin and spend a week surrounded by people who speak your particular brand of Gen X nerd. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.