What made you decide that now was the right time to tell your story?
So I cant take full credit for the book.
Its an incredible book but I cant take all the credit for it.
And all of these stories give the book a wide emotional range.
People always ask me was it as fun to make that movie as it looked?
All of it and its crazy.
Breaking my toe, Andres fart.
Was there a particular memory or time on the film that you enjoyed revisiting the most?
Id seen nearly all of his work and I knew the book.
And was there anything youd forgotten and rediscovered during the process and talking to your colleagues?
I didnt know that at the time.
Which is so bizarre… no its more than bizarre.
Its inconceivable to think of anyone else in that role!
And Rob was so funny.
Rob goes I dont think he still gets why hes so good in the film!
I want it to be you guys.
So we really didnt have any choice [laughs].
And the title of the fight was no pressure at all!
And did you actually study your Agrippa?
They were connoisseurs of fencing.
He wanted the best of the best available.
And I still think its one of the best swordfights in cinema.
It still holds up!
That was an amazing call to get.
He called back and he said dont hang up, its really me!
I apologised, but I couldnt believe he was calling me.
Hed seen [The Princess Bride] and Id actually met him at one of the screenings.
He was one of my heroes growing up.
It doesnt get much better than that for me.
I still reflect back on it and go how did I get to be this lucky?
[Laughs] but talk about another joyful experience, totally joyful every day.
Could you expand on that a little?
Was it a comedy?
Was it a kids movie?
Was it a fairytale?
Was it an action film?
Was it an adults movie?
They settled for the kids approach with this very beautiful poster.
In the UK, they actually kind of got it right.
We had no trailers on television to speak of.
The first one they made, they pulled.
So the film kind of went away sadly at the time when it came out in 1987.
Its mostly that one.
What other ones do I get?
Its great, I lucked out.
Its amazing how widespread the fanbase is.
Why do you think the film continues to appeal across generations?
Well, I think the film is not insulting or doesnt talk down to anyone.
Its fun, its a family movie, as you say, that whole families can watch together.
Everyone can enjoy it on their own level and sometimes on multiple levels and its sweet!
Its sweet and funny.
Its one of those extraordinary things that you cant put your finger on.
I feel blessed to have been part of that, I really do.
Cary Elwes, thank you very much!
Read our review of As You Wish: Inconceivable Tales From The Making Of The Princess Bride,here.
