Thoroughly enjoyed this film despite the cheap CGI, but after all, this is a low budget Kickstarter project--it struggled with funding and could be deemed successful by simply completing the project. The effects did fit the tone of the movie but it would be even better to see the film come back in a "new and improved" version thanks to an influx of cash. Sometimes the poor effects are a distraction--but for the most part they are adequate for propelling the story--and in some places they successfully play off the cheesy effects to comic relief.
Most of the actors--certainly the main cast played their parts well, with special recognition to our "hero" and the villain (you will recognize them both). Special mention goes to the Ork who managed to express himself well under tons of makeup and prosthetics, and without speaking a word. Charmingly funny, the film lovingly lampoons the "Sword and Sorcery" genre--and as other reviewers have mentioned there are clear nods to "Star Wars", "Princess Bride" and others. You'll know 'em when you see 'em.
Overall, genuinely funny without resorting to crude humor, or swearing as humor, or even the usual T&A. I wouldn't hesitate to let kids watch, but there's plenty for the grown ups to enjoy (I would not categorize this as a kid's movie, but there's little to object to either). Probably due to editing choices, as usual in this kind of film, some bits work better than others, More time, more money probably would have helped.
The story is pretty straight forward, and loaded with recognizable tropes that serve to support and push forward the humor and the plot. While there is nothing totally original here, it is put together well enough and is just original enough to keep it fresh rather than just a simple rehash or cliché. Yes there are flaws (some of the dialogue could have been tweaked), as you'll find with all very low budget films, but it is well put together for the money, and you can see the cast enjoyed themselves--while a few actors were a bit uneven, for the most part the acting was well above what you tend to see on this kind of budget--even when those bottom of the barrel budgets manage to lure in recognizable professionals.
Definitely recommended. Amusing, recognizable yet reasonably original-- it should give you a satisfying escape.
