The Cave of the Golden Rose or Fantaghiro may hold a handful of cliché's found in the most popular of fairy tales yet somehow it also gives off a nostalgic appeal. Ironically, it is also unconventional at the same time.

Many portions may be predictable, maybe even to an extent far too surreal for a realist, a critic of the entire concept of love at first sight yet somehow all of these are balanced off by an "out of the box" storyline, a beautiful cast, a highly memorable soundtrack (Der Prinz un Fantaghiro as an example)and an often intelligently planted lighting.

Special effects and cinematography-wise, it may not compare to films that have been digitally manipulated such as The Lord of the Rings and all the others that have impressed us tremendously with three-dimensional graphics. It draws interest through its flowing narrative that is rather old-fashioned, episodic and reminiscent of chronicled epics. It's the sort that one would appreciate due to its ability to develop gracefully its main character, a trait that is a rarity to most films these days.

Recently we have come to know of female heroines who could parallel their male counterparts in a duel yet most of them lose their grace, their radiance, their ethereal majesty within their leather tights and lashing whips. Most certainly they have proved themselves to be worthy adversaries and valued allies yet we hardly see them employ that breathtakingly feminine charm that Fantaghiro has successfully maintained in an intriguing balance. I will not speak of it further as my thoughts might spoil your entertainment. ;) Overall however, The Cave of the Golden Rose is a masterpiece not meant to be described through words. It is the kind that is worthy of being experienced.