"Willow" released 1988

The blockbuster fantasy film Willow, a collaboration between Ron Howard and George Lucas, was released into theaters May 20, 1988. Starring Val Kilmer, Warwick Davis, Joanne Whalley, and Patricia Hayes (also known for the Benny Hill Show), the movie follows the birth of a baby, whom prophecy tells will bring down the reign of the cruel sorceress Queen Bavmorda (Jean Marsh).  

Lots of magic, epic fights, adventures, and even a battle with a dragon make this a fun movie to watch.  

Willow was nominated for two Oscars: Best Sound Effects, and Best Visual Effects.  It was nominated for five Saturn Awards and won for Best Costumes by Barbara Lane. One of its nominations was for Best Fantasy Film, but lost to Who Framed Roger Rabbit?, so that was a tough battle.  Jean Marsh and Warwick Davis got acting nominations.  John Richardson was nominated for Best Special Effects. 

Happy birthday, Star Wars/Harry Potter actor Warwick Davis!

Warwick Davis, born February 3, 1970 in Surrey, England, has appeared in several Star Wars movies and all of the Harry Potter movies.  He was 11 years old when his grandmother encouraged him to audition for Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi, when she heard they were looking for people under 4 feet tall.  He was cast as an extra and was given the role of Wicket, when Kenny Baker, who was originally cast in the role, fell ill.  Davis plays the Ewok who finds Leia in the woods.  

He's appeared in Ewoks: The Battle for Endor, Star Wars Episode 1: Phantom Menace, Episode VII: The Force Awakens, Episode VIII: The Last Jedi, Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker, and Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.

After the success of Return of the Jedi, he was cast in the title role in Willow.  He played Professor Flitwick in the Harry Potter movies.