Man and Witch: The Dance of a Thousand Steps is a 2024 fantasy adventure film that pays homage to the lo-fi fantasy films of the 1980s. Directed by Michael Hines, the movie features Tami Stronach, renowned for her role as the Childlike Empress in “The NeverEnding Story,” making a celebrated return to the big screen. The narrative centers on a lonely goatherd, portrayed by Greg Steinbruner, who discovers he has been cursed from birth to remain unmarried. In his quest to break this spell, he seeks the help of a reclusive witch, played by Stronach. She agrees to assist him on the condition that he completes three seemingly impossible tasks, setting the stage for a journey filled with challenges and self-discovery.
The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including Sean Astin as the voice of the Dog, Bill Bailey as the voice of the Donkey, Eddie Izzard as the voice of the Sheep, Jennifer Saunders as the voice of the Goose, Michael Emerson as the Evil Wizard, Shohreh Aghdashloo as the Wisewoman, and Christopher Lloyd as the Alchemist. This diverse lineup brings a rich array of characters to life, each contributing to the film’s whimsical and enchanting atmosphere.
Critically, the film has been well-received, holding a 93% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Reviews highlight its smart writing and strong performances, drawing favorable comparisons to classics like “Shrek,” “The Princess Bride,” and “The Wizard of Oz.” One reviewer described it as “a proper homage to, and a really welcome modern update to, some of my favorite ‘analog era’ fantasy films, and a clever love story to boot.”
“Man and Witch: The Dance of a Thousand Steps was released in theaters on July 28, 2024, with a runtime of 1 hour and 34 minutes. The film offers a heartwarming and nostalgic experience, blending elements of adventure, comedy, and fantasy. Its narrative explores themes of love, courage, and the transformative power of selflessness, making it a delightful watch for audiences of all ages.