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.

About ten years ago in Holland we saw the international production of Fantaghirò(cave of the golden rose and the sequel, of which I cannot remember the name right now) in English with Dutch subtitles as Saturday morning series. We loved it then and it's a shame there's never been a rerun. We tried to purchase the video or DVD in English with Dutch subs but they aren't out there(only a few smart as*es who have taped it from the TV are now selling these tapes for far too much money and in poor quality) so if anyone can help me get these series in English with Dutch subtitles on DVD(preferably) or video please contact me. If you've never seen the series, make sure you do, it's an international masterpiece! It's a blend of fantasy and romance which makes it fantastic to watch and dream away with it.

I first started to watch this show 2 years ago. After watching the first part I fell in love with this show. To me, it is the most touching and loving film I have ever watch. Recently, the show had been repeated once more and I recorded the whole 4 series and I never get bored watching this show. In fact, it is so touching that I have to use couple sheets of tissue paper to wipe of my tears. I introduce this to all my friends and my friends agree with me that this great film. I like the character of "Fantaghiro" so much and sometimes I wish that my past life was that interesting and romantic. And not forgetting "Romualdo" with that charming and handsome look of yours. It's killing me. Just joking! Anyway, to me, it is the best film I have ever see and will always be.