There is something unusually intriguing about medieval stories. The castles, the fight for the throne, clashing swords, Knights in armor are the things that transport us to those whimsical times. There is a band of films that skillfully realize the times and tales of the medieval era. They may not always stay honest with the legends but they always keep it real. Here is a list of movies that are based on the legends that followed in the medieval times, splendidly brought to fruition on the silver screen.
Macbeth (2015)
If you wish to witness a whole lot of noble backstabbing, sword fights and enigma surrounding the woods, Macbeth is your best bet. The latest film adaptation of the play features Michael Fassbender and brilliantly captures the set up of a medieval era. Fassbender and Marion Cotillard both give phenomenal performances as Macbeths. There is a lot of blood splashing and the remake is definitely not subtle.
Seven Samurai (1954)
Akira Kurosawa’s Seven Samurai follows the life of a group of villagers who hire a bunch of Samurai to keep them safe from the raiders. Amidst brilliant cinematography and sharp character arcs, we get to experience a magnificent set up of medieval Japan. The way Kurosawa builds the characters of a samurai and a villager- equally poor yet one is highly noble and patient (Samurai), while the other is awfully desperate (Villager), is commendable.
Braveheart (1995)
The film is based on a lifelong rivalry between the Saxons and Celts, the one theme that the film plays on. Even the most Scottish people among the audiences may find the extreme patriotism cringe-worthy. Even amidst all the skirt lifting and war cries, the film still remains watchable for its pompous and splendid fight scenes and battles.
The Adventures of Robin Hood (1938)
This dashing and exciting film of the 30s takes the legend of Robin Hood to a whole new level. It is not a very serious film and we can see the characters exchanging a grin all the time. The film won an Oscar for the best soundtrack that year.
Black Death (2010)
When a group of people mysteriously start recovering from the bubonic plague in England, a monk starts investigating the incidents. Sean Bean as the protagonist of the film is at his best. The film surprises its audience as it propels into an unexpected supernatural twist.
Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975)
King Arthur is on a quest to find the Holy Grail with his Knights. The narrative builds around the journey of the mythical king and his Knights, which is filled with terrifying situations. The grim atmosphere in the vein of comedy comes across as an intriguing venture. The film is hilarious and yet maintains the dreary tone of a medieval fair.
The Name of the Rose (1986)
Based in the 14th century the film follows William of Baskerville(Sean Connery), a monk, to solve the suspicious death of a monk in an abbey. As he proceeds with his investigation, several other deaths occur in the abbey. Terrified, the church leaders call Bernardo Gui, William’s arch-rival to look into the matter. Watching Connery enunciate amidst a medieval set-piece is pure delight.
Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (1991)
This time we see the heroic outlaw battling a notorious sheriff who has murdered his father. Alongside Little John’s group of thieves, Robin Hood sets out on the quest to avenge his father. Alan Rickman’s Sheriff steals the show as he is as evil as it gets. The film is a perfect weekend watch.
