I don’t know whether it’s simply a factor of when this was released – making it one of the first films that I ever witnessed on the big screen – or the purity of its imaginative fantasy and simplicity of its themes, but this remains one of my favorite films of all time.

From the opening notes of that iconic synth-heavy theme song, the trailer for The NeverEnding Story sweeps you into a kaleidoscope of 80s fantasy wonder that promises epic adventure, heartfelt emotions, and just a little existential dread. The preview wastes no time introducing Bastian, a wide-eyed dreamer who seems destined to escape his dreary reality by diving into a magical book – a relatable mood for anyone who’s ever sought solace in a story that was better than their homework.

The trailer teases the sprawling world of Fantasia, a realm so visually imaginative it feels like Jim Henson and Salvador Dalí teamed up after an all-nighter fueled by glitter and whimsy. From the majestic Falkor the luckdragon (half dog, half noodle, 100% lovable) to the menacing Gmork (basically your worst nightmare given fur), every frame bursts with creatures that are equal parts awe-inspiring and slightly unsettling. And let’s not forget the hauntingly stoic Rockbiter, whose lamentation over “big, strong hands” is the most poetic ode to helplessness ever delivered by a granite giant.

But beneath the dazzling visuals and sweeping orchestral score lies the trailer’s real hook: the promise of an emotional journey. Bastian’s tale isn’t just about saving a fantastical kingdom from the encroaching Nothing; a metaphor for the loss of creativity as one ages out of childhood. It’s about bravery, self-discovery, and the power of imagination. It’s a story that reminds us that every reader becomes a part of their book’s universe – and every viewer who dares to press play will find themselves lost in Fantasia long after the credits roll. If you’ve got a soft spot for soaring adventures and deeper meanings, The NeverEnding Story is your next stop. Just remember: this story isn’t actually never-ending, but you’ll wish it was.