[Review]—The Historical Epic "Medieval" is Just Bloody Mayhem

The historical epic Medieval, directed by Petr Jákl of the Czech Republic, will have its digital premiere on October 25 through Paramount Pictures Home Entertainment; a Blu-ray and DVD release are scheduled for December 6. Last month, The Avenue distributed the movie, which was made by WOG FILM s.r.o., to a select number of cinemas. It stars Ben Foster, Sophie Lowe, Michael Caine, Til Schweiger, William Moseley, and Matthew Goode. The film is rated R for strong and grisly violent content throughout and some nudity.

L-R) Ben Foster as Jan Žižka and Michael Caine as Lord Boresh in the action film, "MEDIEVAL," The Avenue release. Photo courtesy of The Avenue.

With many liberties taken by writer/director Petr Jákl, the film depicts the historical narrative of the early years of the future Czech general Jan Žižka (c. 1360–October 11, 1424)—it is more fictionalized than anything else. Jan Žižka, a knight and mercenary leader played by Ben Foster, is recruited by Lord Boresh (Michael Caine) to abduct Lady Katherine (Sophie Lowe)—Henry III of Rosenberg's fiancée— for political purposes. However, trouble arises when Žižka falls in love with Lady Katherine—unintentionally becoming her savior.

While Medieval may have graphic, brutal fight sequences, it lacks crucial elements, such as necessary character development and an original plot that isn't just a rehash of all the medieval films that have come before. The directing and choreography, to be honest, appear rather amateurish at times—however—the ambiguous camera angles help give the battle scenes a gritty and authentic sense.

(L-R) Sophie Lowe as Katherine and Christopher Ryghas Mick in the action film, "MEDIEVAL," The Avenue release. Photo courtesy of The Avenue.

On the acting front, Sophie Lowe, an overlooked actress, enchants the screen with her rogue portrayal of Lady Katherine, and Michael Caine— despite limited screen time—provides a superb performance. Ben Foster and the other cast members provide mediocre, uninspired efforts—quickly forgettable by the time the credits roll.

Medieval's many historical mistakes will irritate history enthusiasts; action fans will like the blood and gore, and average spectators will be deathly bored with the explanatory dialogue. ╌★★½✰✰