Director: Guy Ritchie
Starring: Charlie Hunnam, Jude Law, Djimon Hounsou, Eric Bana
Where do I start? How about by apologising for the huge, okay enormous, gap inbetween proper reviews. I have been battling some health issues for a couple of years now and the thought of sitting down and concentrating on a huge review kind of didn't appeal. However, after having a major operation in January of this year, I'm back baby!!!
And what a movie to start my full length reviews again. King Arthur:Legend of the Sword. For as long as I can remember, the myth and legend surrounding King Arthur has always fascinated me. I think it started with watching the musical Camelot with my Mum. Let's face it, it's the stuff of legend, the kind of swoony love story that has it all. Dashing knights, beautiful castles, damsels in distress and an evil sorceress thrown in for good measure. Now when one hears the words King Arthur, several characters spring to mind, Arthur, Merlin, Lancelot, Guinevere, Uther and a few others.
When you go to see this version of the Arthurian legend..............forget everything you know. Leave it at the cinema doors, this is not the stuff of text book myth. This is Guy Ritchie at his finest, putting a twist on things in a way only he can.
When we first meet Arthur, he is but a boy, whose father, King Uther (Eric Bana), and mother Igraine share the infamous Camelot with the Kings brother Vortigen (Jude Law) and his family. All is well until the evil sorcerer Mordred rises in power and brings the kingdom to it's knees.
Fast forward many years later, and Vortigan has become King and seeks out the nephew, known as the Born King.
Fast forward many years later, and Vortigan has become King and seeks out the nephew, known as the Born King.
Charlie Hunnam is absolutely brilliant as the adult Arthur. I can't fault his performance and for me, he was the stand out in the whole film. Seeing him struggle with the knowledge that only he can wield the legendary sword is heartbreaking, but so well done.
The supporting cast are also brilliant. Many familiar faces for those of us who watch Game of Thrones and other medieval movies/tv series. Littlefinger (Aidan Gillen) pops up, as does Roose Bolton (Michael McElhatton) and Katie McGrath (Morgana from Merlin). There is one other cameo that I won't mention, because it's just too funny when he appears on screen to spoil.
This is classic Guy Ritchie genius. The soundtrack is gritty and fits perfectly with the period. The locations were perfect, mainly Wales and Scotland, transporting us back to the darker days of the 12th Century. There are definite Richieisms, (I made that word up, but I think it fits well!) in his use of humor and camera work.
This is edge of your seat, not too gory, but definitely gripping storytelling. Our 12 year old daughter came with us, and absolutely loved it. I can't wait to hear if there will be a sequel, I'd pay to see one that's for sure!!
Thank you for letting us glimpse the Arthurian Legend as seen by your brain Mr Ritchie.
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