description Dragonslayer (1981) Overview
"Dragonslayer" is a 1981 American fantasy film directed by Matthew Robbins and co-produced by Paramount Pictures and Walt Disney Productions. The narrative follows a young, inexperienced wizard's apprentice, portrayed by Peter MacNicol, who is tasked with defeating Vermithrax Pejorative, an ancient dragon terrorizing a medieval kingdom. The film is notable for its dark, mature tone, which sharply contrasted with Disney's typical family-friendly output of the era. It earned critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination for its groundbreaking visual effects, particularly the dragon animation created using Industrial Light & Magic's Go-Motion techniques.
help Dragonslayer (1981) FAQ
What is Dragonslayer about?
Dragonslayer follows Galen, a young wizard's apprentice played by Peter MacNicol, as he tries to defeat the fire-breathing dragon Vermithrax Pejorative. The story takes place in the fictional sixth-century kingdom of Urland. [D23 film guide](https://d23.com/a-to-z/dragonslayer-film/)
Who directed Dragonslayer, and which studios made it?
Matthew Robbins directed Dragonslayer, which was produced jointly by Paramount Pictures and Walt Disney Productions. Paramount released it in the United States in June 1981, while Disney handled international release. [D23 film guide](https://d23.com/a-to-z/dragonslayer-film/)
Why does Dragonslayer feel darker than a typical Disney fantasy?
It was a 1981 dark fantasy made as a joint Disney-Paramount production, with frightening dragon attacks and a more serious medieval story. Its PG rating and mature tone made it quite different from a conventional children's adventure. [Paramount Pictures](https://www.paramountpictures.com/movies/dragonslayer)
How long is Dragonslayer?
The film runs for 110 minutes. Its practical creature effects were a major part of the production, including Disney's work on the dragon Vermithrax Pejorative. [D23 film guide](https://d23.com/a-to-z/dragonslayer-film/)
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