King Arthur: Legend of the Sword

amazon King Arthur: Legend of the Sword reviews

Legend of the Sword is the latest production by director Guy Richie, a director he likes very much through The Man from U.N.C.L.E and Snatch. Actually I watched this movie without knowing Guy Riche directed, but just a little bit to see right away. In addition, I’m a fan of the movie King Arthur released in 2004 by Clive Owen, Keira Knightley should also expect this version of 2017 for comparison.

The first comparison of the two films is that these two texts … are not related to each other from style, content to storytelling. There is also a circus knight, there are also Arthur, there are Vikings, … but the 2004 version is epic style, heroic, honoring the knight and teammates, the 2017 style is complete. Other, comedy is not necessarily comedy, epic is not necessarily epic, it is very strange expression, interesting but there are many places it ruined all the emotions.

King Arthur: Legend of the Sword as its name mainly refers to King Arthur and the “sword in stone” legends Excalibur. The timeline of the 2017 may be before the 2004 edition, so this time King Arthur is a bit “wild”. Arthur (Charlie Hunnam) witnessed the death of his father (King Uther – Eric Bana) when his brother Vortigern (Jude Law) countered. He “drifted off” to a new land, was raised by brothel girls, grew up with a filter of flybynight learning due to circumstances and also learned martial arts.

where can you get a King Arthur: Legend of the Sword online

King Arthur: Legend of the Sword: Buy it now

King Arthur: Legend of the Sword (2016) (BD) [Blu-ray]: Buy it now

Guy Ritchie led quite fast, film circuit “rushing” from the beginning of the film but you rest assured that many knots will be gradually removed to the end of the film, quite complete. This is a fairly intelligent and creative way of doing it, but how do you find it suited to the type of spy film, like The Man from U.N.C.L.E, but this one seems to make the viewer confused. Accompanying that is the style that shows off the elegant character, the rooster that Guy Ritchie or make the most out of his films is also in King Arthur. I am not very clear about the costumes of this time, maybe this detail is wrong, but when King Vortigern reigns, he dressed in a new style of clothing today, so this makes me refer to the doctor. Watson (also played by Jude Law) in the Sherlock Holmes film series (also directed by Guy Ritchie) finds the time machine back in time as King Vortigern. Guy Ritchie’s new way of acting is counterproductive, the epic epic of the movie is almost nonexistent, the climax is like the death of a teammate does not leave any emotion. It kept drifting so fast, and it was like joking.

One thing that must be praised is that King Arthur: The Legend of the Sword is spinning so well, from the image to the sound, the full effects, the witch element to The Mage character (Astrid Berges-Frisbey) Help the movie show off skill. However, as mentioned above, the style of Guy Ritchie does not seem to fit King Arthur.

Plot Summary

The story begins in a time of darkness and turmoil in Britain. Uther Pendragon (Eric Bana) is the reigning king, but his rule is threatened by the tyrannical sorcerer Mordred. After a fierce battle, Uther is betrayed and murdered by his brother, Vortigern (Jude Law), who seizes the throne. Uther’s infant son, Arthur, is sent away to escape Vortigern’s wrath and grows up in the slums of London, unaware of his royal heritage.

Arthur, raised in the bustling and dangerous streets, is a resilient and cunning figure, fighting to survive and make a name for himself. When the mystical sword Excalibur appears in a stone, Vortigern’s rule is threatened by its prophecy. Arthur is thrust into a world of magic, destiny, and political intrigue as he discovers his true lineage and becomes embroiled in the struggle to reclaim his birthright.

Character Analysis

1. Arthur (Charlie Hunnam): Charlie Hunnam’s portrayal of Arthur is a departure from the traditional depiction of the character. Hunnam brings a gritty, streetwise edge to Arthur, reflecting his rough upbringing and struggle for survival. His performance captures Arthur’s growth from a reluctant hero to a confident leader, although some viewers might find his modern, almost rebellious take on the character at odds with traditional Arthurian themes.
2. Vortigern (Jude Law): Jude Law’s Vortigern is a complex antagonist driven by ambition and a desire for power. Law brings a menacing charisma to the role, embodying a king whose tyranny and ruthlessness make him a formidable foe. Vortigern’s backstory and motivations are explored, giving him a multi-dimensional character arc that adds depth to his villainy.
3. Morgana (Astrid Bergès-Frisbey): Astrid Bergès-Frisbey plays Morgana, a powerful sorceress with a mysterious and ambiguous role in the story. Her character is integral to the magical elements of the plot, though her motivations and ultimate objectives are somewhat unclear. Bergès-Frisbey delivers a performance that is ethereal and enigmatic, fitting the character’s mystical nature.
4. Uther Pendragon (Eric Bana): Eric Bana’s portrayal of Uther Pendragon is brief but impactful. His role sets the stage for the film’s events, and Bana’s performance conveys the gravitas of a king betrayed and a father’s love for his son. Although his screen time is limited, Bana’s presence is significant in establishing the film’s emotional core.
5. Bedivere (Djimon Hounsou): Djimon Hounsou’s Bedivere is a loyal warrior and mentor to Arthur. Hounsou brings a sense of wisdom and strength to the character, serving as a guide and protector. His role is crucial in helping Arthur understand his destiny and navigate the challenges ahead.

Themes and Motifs

1. Destiny and Legacy: At the heart of “King Arthur: Legend of the Sword” is the theme of destiny and legacy. Arthur’s journey from a street thief to the king of Britain highlights the idea of a destined leader rising from humble beginnings. The film explores how legacy shapes identity and the responsibilities that come with it.
2. Power and Corruption: The film delves into the corrupting influence of power through the character of Vortigern. His ruthless quest for control and the lengths he will go to maintain his throne illustrate the dangers of unchecked ambition and the moral costs of power.
3. Magic and Myth: The mystical elements of the story, including the sword Excalibur and the magical realms, are central to the narrative. The film blends historical drama with fantasy, exploring how myth and magic intersect with the human struggle for power and identity.
4. Identity and Self-Discovery: Arthur’s journey is also one of self-discovery. As he learns about his royal heritage and embraces his destiny, he grapples with his identity and the responsibilities that come with it. The film portrays his internal struggle and growth as he comes to terms with his role as a leader.

Visual and Special Effects

“King Arthur: Legend of the Sword” is notable for its striking visual style and dynamic special effects. Guy Ritchie’s direction brings a frenetic energy to the film, with a distinctive approach to action sequences and visual storytelling. The film’s CGI is used to create epic battle scenes, mystical landscapes, and fantastical elements, although some critics argue that the heavy reliance on digital effects sometimes detracts from the authenticity of the historical setting.

The sword Excalibur, in particular, is a focal point of the film’s visual design. The sword’s transformation and the scenes depicting its magical properties are rendered with impressive attention to detail, contributing to the film’s sense of grandeur and myth.

Direction and Screenplay

Guy Ritchie’s direction brings a unique flair to the Arthurian legend, incorporating his signature style of rapid cuts, kinetic action sequences, and sharp dialogue. The film’s pacing is brisk, with a focus on high-energy sequences and visual spectacle. Ritchie’s approach adds a modern twist to the classic tale, though it may not resonate with all viewers, particularly those expecting a more traditional depiction of the Arthurian legend.

The screenplay, co-written by Ritchie, Joby Harold, and Lionel Wigram, attempts to balance historical drama with fantasy elements. While the dialogue is often sharp and engaging, the film’s plot can feel disjointed at times. Some characters and subplots are underdeveloped, and the film’s attempt to blend different genres and tones may come across as uneven.

Criticisms

1. Pacing and Plot Structure: One of the major criticisms of “King Arthur: Legend of the Sword” is its pacing and plot structure. The film’s rapid transitions between action sequences and plot developments can make the narrative feel disjointed. Some viewers may find the story’s progression confusing or rushed, particularly in the buildup to key events.
2. Character Development: While the film boasts a strong cast, some characters lack depth and development. For example, Morgana’s motivations and role in the story are not fully explored, and certain secondary characters are given limited screen time. This can result in a lack of emotional investment in the characters and their arcs.
3. Historical Accuracy: The film takes significant liberties with the Arthurian legend and historical accuracy. While this is expected in a fantasy reimagining, some viewers may be disappointed by the film’s departure from traditional depictions of Arthur and his world. The blend of modern and medieval elements may not appeal to purists seeking a more faithful adaptation.
4. Visual Overload: The heavy reliance on CGI and visual effects has been criticized for overshadowing the film’s narrative and character development. While the visual spectacle is impressive, some critics argue that it comes at the expense of a more nuanced and emotionally resonant story.

Conclusion

“King Arthur: Legend of the Sword” is a bold and ambitious reimagining of the Arthurian legend, offering a fresh take on a classic tale. Guy Ritchie’s direction and the film’s visual style create an energetic and visually striking experience, though the film’s pacing, plot structure, and character development have been points of contention.

The film’s blend of historical drama and fantasy elements provides an engaging, if unconventional, portrayal of the Arthurian legend. While it may not satisfy all viewers, particularly those seeking a more traditional or historically accurate depiction, it offers a unique and modern interpretation of the timeless story.

In conclusion, “King Arthur: Legend of the Sword” stands as an ambitious attempt to reinvigorate the Arthurian legend for a new generation. Its visual spectacle and dynamic direction make it a visually captivating film, even if its narrative and character development leave some viewers wanting more.