Directed by David Lowery and starring Dev Patel and Ralph Ineson, The Green Knight is a 2021 medieval fantasy adventure movie based upon the Arthurian canon; specifically the 14th-century poem, Sir Gawain and the Green Knight. This review is intended to be free of spoilers, but none of us are perfect. No review copy was provided. There are affiliate links at the end of this review.
I completely missed this movie when it first came out. If I’d known about it, I’d have leapt on it. Everyone loves Arthurian stories, or at least some of the elements thereof. It’s one of the reasons that the RPG, Pendragon, is held in such high esteem. I found the film when looking for a suitable STL for a Green Knight miniature, before settling on the one I chose from Lost Kingdom. I recently got around to watching it, and it was fascinating.
The film is a visually stunning and thought-provoking adaptation of the 14th-century chivalric romance, Sir Gawain and the Green Knight. Directed by David Lowery, this film offers a fresh and bold take on the Arthurian legend, starring Dev Patel as the headstrong and reckless Sir Gawain. I really like Dev Patel, and his inclusion was a big bit of what got my attention. He’s great in Slumdog Millionnaire and I absolutely loved him in The Newsroom. He’s such a compelling presence in The Newsroom, even among a really stellar ensemble cast. Here, he definitely holds his own as a leading man.
From the very beginning, the film sets a surreal and atmospheric tone with its misty fog, light snow, and falling ash, transporting the audience to a world far removed from daily concerns. The narrative follows Sir Gawain, the nephew of King Arthur, who embarks on a daring quest to confront the enigmatic Green Knight, a half-man, half-tree figure who challenges Gawain to a deadly game.
One of the most striking aspects of The Green Knight is its visual artistry. The film is a feast for the eyes, with its lush landscapes, intricate costumes, and hauntingly beautiful cinematography. Lowery’s direction is meticulous, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that perfectly complements the film’s themes of heroism, temptation, and the search for identity. The score is a constant tonal presence that complements and enhances the visual feast we have been given.
Dev Patel delivers a stunning performance as Sir Gawain, capturing the character’s vulnerability, pride, and determination with remarkable depth. His physical performance, particularly his expressive eyes and body language, conveys a range of emotions without relying heavily on dialogue. The supporting cast, including Alicia Vikander and Ralph Ineson, also deliver strong performances, adding layers to the film’s complex narrative.
The Green Knight is not a traditional action-packed adventure. Instead, it is a meditative and introspective journey that challenges the audience’s expectations of Arthurian tales. Certainly, there’s no pronouncement of honour or twangs of Greensleeves here. The film’s pacing is deliberate; this is not a fast movie. It allows for long, contemplative exchanges and moments of quiet reflection. This may not appeal to all viewers, but those who appreciate a more poetic and philosophical approach to storytelling will find much to admire.
The Green Knight is a spellbinding and ambitious film that stands out for its visual splendour, compelling performances, and thought-provoking narrative. It is a cinematic experience that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll, inviting viewers to ponder its deeper meanings and themes. Whether you are a fan of Arthurian legends or simply appreciate beautifully crafted cinema, The Green Knight is a must-watch. I’d also love to see other tales from the court of Arthur given similar treatment.
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