This week marks the 30th anniversary of The Princess Bride, the romantic fantasy film that pulled off quite the Hollywood miracle—by anyone’s standards. The movie was far from a flop, but it wasn’t a hit when it hit theaters. Instead, it took years for fans to discover the film and realize just how fantastic it really was. Now, The Princess Bride is rightfully regarded as one of the all-time greats, and it may have even saved a life along the way.
While speaking to Variety, The Princess Bride director Rob Reiner shared the story of a time that he and his producing partner, Andrew Scheinman, were approached by a woman who credited their movie for helping her survive an avalanche with her friends. According to Reiner, the woman overheard his conversation with a producer for Fletch and approached them with her tale after their mutual friend left the table.
According to the young woman, she was an extreme skier who was trapped in an avalanche alongside several other skiers. To keep their spirits up, the woman recited lines from The Princess Bride. “‘When we were freezing, I did the entire movie to keep everybody occupied and to keep everybody up, happy and listening,'” recalled Reiner. “I am not exaggerating — then she said ‘You know, because Fletch just wouldn’t do.’ That was the best line I ever got. ‘The Princess Bride saved my life.'”
Reiner insisted that “This is the honest to God truth,†as he was told it. Either way, that’s a great story, which sounds like it could be an interesting film on its own.
What do you think about Reiner’s recollection of the film’s unexpected life saving status? Share your thoughts in the comment section below!
Want More Princess Bride content? As You Wish…
- Here’s a review of Carey Elwes’ book, As You Wish.
- The mash-up of Game of Thrones and Princess Bride you never knew you needed is here.
- Here’s why we’re dying for a Miracle Max and Valerie spin-off.
Images: 20th Century Fox
