Start with a faithful costume drama, liberally mix with swords and sorcery, add in a dash of pirates, then toss in a dollop of romantic comedy. It may sound like a mess, but in the hands of a master, the result is Stardust — a resplendent romp through an English village, a mystical marketplace… and parts unknown.

Neil Gaiman’s fanciful story transcends the familiar framework of traditional fantasy fables to create a mythological mashup that lies somewhere between a child’s fairy tale and Hollywood blockbuster, yet comfortably distant from both.

All of the classic characters are here: the heroic adventuresome lad and the mysterious beauty with hidden talents, pitted against evil witches and plotting princes. Nevertheless, there’s a great deal more at play here, and these players interact in unique and subtly surprising ways.

Some say that Stardust is a child’s movie, and they may be right. Many adults will not be perceptive enough, or clever enough to appreciate such a marvelously mixed-up adventure. Treat your inner child and make the journey to Wall, to Stormhold, and beyond.