10 Best Medieval War Movies

Another medieval marvel directed by Ridley Scott, Robin Hood takes the iconic legend of the titular outlaw (played by a gruff Russell Crowe) and places it within a grittier historical context, giving this well-known character a freshly re-worked origin story.

Set in 1199 as we see King Richard I’s army returning to England after their crusade, we meet Robin Longstride, a common archer in the king’s service who’s imprisoned for condemning the massacre at Acre. However, after the king is killed in battle, Longstride and his associates escape, taking the names of fallen knights to cross the Channel. Assuming the name Loxley, Longstride agrees to keep the name to ensure the knight's family keep their land in Nottingham.

Meanwhile King John (Oscar Isaac) – remember him? – is betrayed by his associate Godfrey (Mark Strong), who intends to help France invade England. Due to his assumed title, Robin and his band of men become entwined in the political upheaval, fighting against the invading forces.

While this retelling of the famous folk tale doesn’t break any new ground in cinema, it does offer a bombastic medieval melee that reminds viewers why this character has become so iconic.