Today marks the 30th anniversary of The Princess Bride. WIlliam Goldman’s 1973 novel (a great read)  hit the big screen in 1987 with an impressive cast and some cracking cinematography. Cameos from Peter Cook, Mel Smith, Billy Crystal; the best fight scene that ever there was; humour for everyone at every turn…What’s to not like?

Content Remained Hidden Treasure

The grand opening was followed by a frankly ‘not so grand following’. This wonderful, funny, warm, magical film just didn’t get noticed. It had all the elements, and the cast to be an all time great, yet, people just didn’t notice, inconceivable! 

Choose Your Titles Carefully

If you are not familiar with the film, what does ‘The Princess Bride’ mean to you? Does it conjure up images of humour, adventure, nostalgia and piracy? Let’s be honest, probably not. Since its release, researchers analysed the reason for the initial ‘failure’, and it was all down to the title. ‘The Princess Bride’ just doesn’t describe what this film is all about. The audience couldn’t find the film and the film didn’t find its audience.

Slow Burn to Success

Perhaps we can say, 30 years on, that The Princess Bride has enjoyed a greater, longer-lasting success. It has enjoyed a cult following that will live on for years to come, well deserved. Thank you Rob Reiner for the joy you have brought to my family for the last 30 years.

The Moral of the Story

If you want your products and services to be found, name them something that tells your prospective audience what they are. Searching the internet is like wading through treacle, name and describe your products/services in a way that will stand out and capture the attention of potential customers. Words matter.

The Sword Fight, Enjoy!

That scene I mentioned earlier, would you like to see it?

As you wish