A devilish wizard threatens to overthrow a young emperoress' reign. In an effort to save the kingdom, a couple of thieves assemble a small team to retrieve an ancient staff that has the power to control dragons, but the forces of evil are after the staff, too.

One must imagine that this film is based on the popular role playing game of the same name. Well, let it be said that playing this game is more interesting and exciting than watching this movie. It looks as if principal photography for this film was done in a week. Thora Birch is way out of her league as she does her best to mimic Natalie Portman in The Phantom Menace and Jeremy Irons looks downright silly as the evil wizard. The whole plot is a not-well-disguised rewrite of Star Wars, and many scenes have been lifted directly from other pictures. The Silliest Character of the Year Award goes to the Dwarf in this picture; and anything resembling character development is void despite some other decent characters with which to work.

So what's this doing in Only Good Movies? The special effects are at the forefront of D & D's good points. The final battle scene features two armies of dragons duking it out and is quite impressive. There are at least a couple scenes that are written well and interesting to watch. Marlon Wayans, who looks quite spry in this film, is probably the most interesting character and provides some fun and comic relief.

But I was looking for a darker film, more in line with the game. I really wanted to see an Ice Storm, or similar dramatic spell, get cast; there was none. Generally a weak effort, but with some good features. Maybe the sequel will be better.

Directed by Courtney Solomon.