Medieval epics have an audience, as Ridley Scott fans will attest. Scott’s films like the recent “The Last Duel,” 2010’s “Robin Hood,” and 2005’s “Kingdom Of Heaven” are all big tales of knights, kingdoms, and swordplay. Even “Braveheart,” and David Michôd‘s 2019 Shakespeare adaptation “The King” are in the same vein. But none of those may go as far as depicting medieval life and combat as “Medieval,” the upcoming film that’s the most expensive Czech movie ever made.
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The new film stars Ben Foster as Jan Žižka, a Bohemian military commander who many consider one of the best warriors in history. But the new movie, directed Czech film industry mainstay Petr Jákl, doesn’t cover Žižka’s most infamous victories during the Hussite Wars, from 1419-1434. Instead “Medieval” is a coming-of-age tale of how Žižka became the legendary fighter The Holy Roman Empire had ever seen.
Here’s the film’s official synopsis:
Inspired by the true story of Jan Žižka, one of the greatest warriors in history. After the death of its reigning emperor, the Holy Roman Empire is plummeting into chaos while feuding brothers King Wenceslas of Czech and King Sigismund of Hungary battled for control of the empty throne. Daring and righteous mercenary leader Jan Zizka is hired by Lord Boresh to kidnap the powerful Lord Rosenberg’s fiancée, Lady Katherine, to prevent Rosenberg’s rise to power alongside the corrupt King Sigismund. Jan believes that Kings are the right hand of God and should be respected and obeyed, no matter what. As Katherine becomes caught in a dangerous political game between the monarchs, Jan falls in love with her strong spirit and dedication to saving the people. In a brave attempt to liberate her, he fights back with a rebel army to battle the corruption, greed, and betrayal rampant amongst those clawing for power. Jan now realizes that the fate of the Empire will be decided by his love for Lady Katherine and that his fate doesn’t lie in the hands of Kings, but in the hands of his own people.
Alongside Foster, “Medieval” also stars Michael Caine, Matthew Goode, Sophie Lowe, Til Schweiger, and William Moseley. Karel Roden, Roland Møller, Kevin Bernhardt, Ondřej Vetchý, and Marek Vašut also star.
Jákl directs and writes “Medieval,” based on a story concept by his father, and Marek Dobes and Michal Petrus. Jákl’s previous movies include the 2015 horror movie “Ghoul” and 2010’s “Kajinek,” an action drama. “Medieval” boasts a 500 million Czech koruna budget, making it the country’s most expensive film a massive margin. For comparison, 500 million koruna comes out to roughly $23 million USD.
Will the origin story of one of the most legendary figures in Medieval Eastern Europe translate into stateside success? Find out when “Medieval” hits theaters on September 9. Watch the trailer below.
Update: Watch the red-band trailer version for “Medieval.”
