Ron Howard’s ‘Willow’ Celebrates 25th Anniversary With Blu-Ray Release [Video]

Director Ron Howard’s 1988 fantasy film Willow is celebrating its 25th anniversary in existence next year. To mark the occasion, 20th Century Fox will unleash a special edition Blu-ray upon the movie’s rabid fanbase next March.

According to Cinema Blend, champions of the aforementioned adventure will be able to pick up the two-disc Blu-ray early next year. Those of us who already own the film will be able to upgrade our well-worn DVDs for something with a bit more definition.

In addition to the film itself, the set will include a few behind-the-scenes featurettes, a new batch of deleted scenes, and a video diary from star Warwick Davis.

While some special edition Blu-ray sets can easily drain your bank account of previous funds, the Willow package is surprisingly affordable. The suggested retail price is a measly $24.99, though Amazon is currently offering the flick for $17.99.

If you haven’t heard of the movie, then you may need this synopsis:

“When young Willow Ufgood finds an abandoned baby girl, he learns she is destined to end the reign of the wicked Queen Bavmorda. In order to protect the child, Willow must team up with a rogue swordsman and overcome the forces of darkness in the ultimate battle of good versus evil!”

According to USA Today, people frequently tell Davis how fond they are of Ron Howard’s 80s adventure flick. Although the Leprechaun alum is humbled by the film’s appeal, Davis admits he’s a little surprised by Willow’s popularity.

“I don’t know why but I’m always surprised how many people come up to me and say, ‘Oh man, I love that film,’ ” the actor explained. “It’s a privilege to be in something that has become a classic and the type of film people like to hand on to generations. People who grew up watching it have had kids or even grandkids and then they’re pulling that film out to show them.”

In addition to Davis, this charming fantasy flick stars Val Kilmer, Joanne Whalley, Jean Marsh, Tony Cox, and the legendary Billy Barty.

Fans of Ron Howard’s Willow will be able to own the special edition Blu-ray version of the flick when it hits retail shelves on March 12, 2013. A brand new trailer for the movie has been embedded below.