So, this movie is about the siege of Rochester Castle by King John in 1215. The fact is that the battle happened, and the result was similar to what is depicted in the film, but the embellishments are significant and pervasive. Still, you don't need a story to be true in order to enjoy it, do you?
Paul Giamatti plays the worst mad king ever. He lacks the gravitas that would be expected for the role, and his relatively short stature doesn't help. He really tries to get those crazy eyes down, but they never mature. It's like when a dumb man tries to play a smart man - it usually doesn't work out at all.
Brian Cox would have been great in the role, if only he wasn't preoccupied playing one of the lords in this movie already. The lord that he plays actually existed, but the role that he played in this movie was entirely made up. I really think a quick switch between Paul and Brian would have resulted in a better movie.
James Purefoy plays the Templar Knight who essentially can't be defeated in battle, but he has a somber determination in him that lets you know about his personal demons and conflicted spirit right away. His mopey demeanor is kind of annoying, and his stand-off attitude is a draw for the ladies, of course. This is especially true because he is sworn to celibacy. For some reason, I always confuse James Purefoy with Thomas Jane - maybe it's just me.
Kate Mara plays the milquetoast Lady Isabel. She is the Lady of the castle, and she falls for the dashing hero pretty quickly. The fact that he is forbidden fruit - as always in these kinds of films - only adds to her infatuation. Unfortunately, she doesn't have enough of a role to make the movie interesting for her. Instead, she tries to be pretty and flirtatious while being as prudish as possible (given the times).
Story is good
Direction is good
Effects are good
Acting is good
Dialog is sketchy
3/5
James Purefoy plays the Templar Knight who essentially can't be defeated in battle, but he has a somber determination in him that lets you know about his personal demons and conflicted spirit right away. His mopey demeanor is kind of annoying, and his stand-off attitude is a draw for the ladies, of course. This is especially true because he is sworn to celibacy. For some reason, I always confuse James Purefoy with Thomas Jane - maybe it's just me.
Kate Mara plays the milquetoast Lady Isabel. She is the Lady of the castle, and she falls for the dashing hero pretty quickly. The fact that he is forbidden fruit - as always in these kinds of films - only adds to her infatuation. Unfortunately, she doesn't have enough of a role to make the movie interesting for her. Instead, she tries to be pretty and flirtatious while being as prudish as possible (given the times).
Story is good
Direction is good
Effects are good
Acting is good
Dialog is sketchy
3/5