‘The Princess Bride’ is still good at 30

If you had to name your favorite children's movie, what would it be? I'm not sure I could come up with just one.

But on the list somewhere — certainly among the top 10 — would be "The Princess Bride."

Based on the 1973 novel by William Goldman, who then adapted that book for the screenplay, the 1987 movie was directed by Rob Reiner. It was, in fact, Reiner's fourth feature film, following "This Is Spinal Tap," "The Sure Thing" and "Stand By Me" (not a bad trio of movies), and it provided conclusive evidence that Reiner was far more than just the "Meathead" he portrayed on the sitcom "All in the Family."

The casting helped. Cary Elwes and Robin Wright portray the young lovers, Wesley and Buttercup, while Mandy Patinkin and Andre the Giant the helpers of the Sicilian Vizzini (Wallace Shawn) who help foil the dastardly plans of Prince Humperdinck (Chris Sarandon) and his evil acolyte Count Rugen (Christopher Guest).

And a very young Fred Savage and Peter Falk provide the bookend story that sets everything in motion. If for no other reason, watching Savage's character grow interested in his grandfather's story is priceless.

But don't just listen to me talk about it. Fathom Events will celebrate the 30th anniversary of "The Princess Bride" with a pair of screenings at two Inland Northwest theaters, NorthTown Mall and Coeur d'Alene's Riverstone Stadium cinemas. The screenings will be held at 2 and 7 p.m. on both Oct. 15 and 18.

"The Princess Bride" may not be the best children's movie ever made. But it comes pretty close.