Synopsis: Heartbroken over the death of her beloved Westley (Cary Elwes), beautiful Buttercup (Robin Wright) finally succumbs to the advances of the wicked Prince Humperdinck. Yet, when she’s suddenly kidnapped by a motley gang of deviants, what gallant hero comes to her rescue? None other than Westley – alive, well… and as wonderful as ever! But before these two can live happily ever after, they must first overcome formidable odds. Will these star-crossed lovers ever fulfill their destiny? Or, this time, will Buttercup lose Westley forever?
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The Princess Bride 8.5

The Grandson: A book?

Grandpa: That’s right. When I was your age, television was called books. And this is a special book. It was the book my father used to read to me when I was sick, and I used to read it to your father. And today I’m gonna read it to you.

The Grandson: Has it got any sports in it?

Grandpa: Are you kidding? Fencing, fighting, torture, revenge, giants, monsters, chases, escapes, true love, miracles…

The Grandson: Doesn’t sound too bad. I’ll try to stay awake.

Grandpa: Oh, well, thank you very much, very nice of you. Your vote of confidence is overwhelming.

When I first saw this movie, I thought it was just okay – good, but nothing momentous. So I used it to fall asleep to, figuring that it would be the perfect background noise and wouldn’t be a distraction. Plus, with the small segments (and voice-overs) featuring the grandson and grandpa, it was like being told a bed-time story.

I tried this many times, and I kept turning around to watch it; I eventually understood its whimsical nature and tongue-in-cheek sense of fun. It’s at the top of my list now, and I know now the reason that it has become a favourite of many families, shared from one generation to the next.

No joke, The Princess Bride is real comfort food.