In the vast realm of Hollywood, every successful actor has had their fair share of hits and misses. Even for a megastar like Tom Cruise, there are lesser-known films from his early career that might surprise some fans. One such film is the 1985 fantasy movie “Legend,” which took Cruise on an enchanting journey through a world of magical creatures and dark forces. While “Legend” may not have achieved blockbuster success, it still holds a special place for those who remember it. What many might not know is that the film nearly had a completely different ending, leaving us to wonder whether the final choice was the best one.
Directed by Ridley Scott, “Legend” boasts a captivating blend of fantasy and romance, set against a backdrop of enchanted forests and mythical beings. Cruise plays the valiant Jack, whose bravery catches the eye of Princess Lili, portrayed by Mia Sara. As their love blossoms, darkness looms on the horizon in the form of the malevolent Lord of Darkness, masterfully portrayed by Tim Curry.
In this magical world, the delicate balance of nature is disrupted when Princess Lili touches a living unicorn, unwittingly aiding the Lord of Darkness in his sinister plans. This sets Jack on a courageous quest to save his love and restore harmony to the land. The film builds to an epic confrontation between Jack and the Lord of Darkness, with the fate of the world hanging in the balance.
What Was ‘Legend’s Original Ending?
The climactic battle sees Jack emerge victorious, banishing the Lord of Darkness to an eternal void, saving the unicorn, and awakening Princess Lili from her hypnotized state. With the unicorn’s horn restored, darkness dissipates, and the world returns to light and goodness. While the conclusion may appear somewhat predictable, Ridley Scott’s direction gives it a fresh and enjoyable presentation.
Yet, it turns out that the ending audiences saw wasn’t the only one considered for “Legend.” Ridley Scott’s director’s cut showcased an alternate ending where Princess Lili wakes up to find that the entire ordeal was just a vivid nightmare. The dream reveals the differing backgrounds of Jack and Lili, leading to the realization that their love faces significant challenges. In the end, Jack promises to return one day, leaving the story on a bittersweet note.
Another proposed ending showed Jack and Lili running off into the now warm and beautiful forest, believing they had vanquished the Lord of Darkness. However, to their dismay, the malevolent figure reveals his eternal existence from the void, laughing at their naive belief.
Exploring Alternate Endings in Hollywood
In the world of filmmaking, alternate endings are not uncommon during the creative process. While some directors may shoot multiple endings with the intention of releasing a director’s cut later, that wasn’t necessarily the case back when “Legend” was made. Unearthing these tidbits about how the film could have concluded differently adds a layer of fascination to an already intriguing movie.
Ultimately, “Legend” remains worth watching for various reasons. Witnessing a young Tom Cruise in a fantasy love story is a departure from his usual roles, and his performance deserves more recognition. Ridley Scott’s masterful direction brings the magical world to life, filled with captivating characters and stunning visuals. And, of course, the film’s iconic portrayal of the Lord of Darkness by Tim Curry ensures that “Legend” remains etched in our memories.
While the final ending of “Legend” may be a subject of debate among fans, it is a testament to the artistry of filmmaking. The journey of Jack and Princess Lili, though unconventional, leaves us with a tale of courage, love, and the enduring battle between light and darkness—a timeless story that captivates hearts, no matter which path it takes to its conclusion.
