Ritchie Meets Robin Hood Action Fantasy in Netflix’s Officially Top 10 ‘300’-Style Hit

Arthur’s Fight for the Throne

The story begins with Uther Pendragon, played by Eric Bana, betrayed by his brother Vortigern, played by Jude Law. Vortigern seeks the throne and the power of Excalibur, a sword crafted by Merlin, and makes a deal with syrens for demonic power.

Young Arthur escapes after Vortigern kills Uther and grows up elsewhere. Years later, Excalibur draws him back, and he joins forces with a mage played by Àstrid Bergès-Frisbey as he challenges his uncle for the throne.

A Distinctive Arthurian Reworking

The film takes liberties with familiar versions of Arthurian legend, presenting its own ideas about the hero and Camelot. Merlin, played by Kamil Lemieszewski, has only a minor role.

Ritchie brings a fast-paced style to the story, in a vein compared with his Sherlock Holmes films starring Robert Downey Jr. The movie also features a score by Daniel Pemberton and a distinctive vision of Camelot.

Action and Destiny

Action is central to the film, as Arthur learns to wield Excalibur and moves toward the crown and the Round Table. Questions of fate and destiny shape his choices along the way.

The Lady of the Lake, played by Jacqui Ainsley, steers Arthur toward his royal birthright. The film’s trailers used Led Zeppelin’s “Babe I’m Gonna Leave You” to signal its tone, though the song does not appear in the movie.

A Netflix Top 10 Return

King Arthur: Legend of the Sword is now charting in Netflix’s Top 10 popular movies. The film did not lead to a sequel, but its style and action may appeal to viewers seeking a modern fantasy adventure. The 2017 movie is available to stream on Netflix.