10 Blood-Stirringly Epic Cinematic Charges

9. Kingdom Of Heaven (2005)

The Charge: Balian’s defense of Kerak

After the release of Gladiator (2000) there was a resurgence in the popularity of the historical epic. Eager to replicate his own success, Ridley Scott’s second historical epic of the 2000s is set during the Crusades of the 12th century. Like many of the Gladiator-inspired movies of that time, Kingdom of Heaven had a muted reception upon release. The film does contain a few gems, including this epic charge, and thankfully the much needed directors cut made some much needed improvements.

The film follows Balian of Ibelin (Orlando Bloom),a blacksmith who joins his estranged father to take part in the crusade. After showing bravery in battle, his dying father knights him, and charges him to serve the King of Jerusalem and protect the helpless. Soon after Raynald of Chatillon (Brendon Gleeson) attacks a Saracen caravan. In retaliation Saladin (Ghassan Massoud) orders an attack on the castle of Kerak.

Hopelessly outnumbered, the King of Jerusalem (Edward Norton) himself asks Balian to protect the surrounding villagers. Knowing he is facing certain defeat, he leads a valiant charge against impossible odds. This scene is epic in a way that only Ridley Scott can achieve.