Review of First Knight (1995) by Justin O — 18 Oct 2012

This "medieval" film ends up looking somewhat shallow and just a bit pointless, although the potential for great film is there and its not a bad film, really. Too hollywood style for its own good, one can't pin down exactly what it is, just the overall impression and emphasis on exuberance shallow scenes and over-dramatic situations. Not quite fake but the wardrobe and effects don't seem that medieval, at least not to me. They use so cool and modern looking clothes, and when sword hits another sword or stone pillar, they use similar fire crackers as in movies where bullets are supposed to hit something. Not only that but other small details : I didn't understand why Lancelot did not kneel down in front of Arthur at their first meeting - he spoke to him without addressing him as 'My king' or 'Your highness' or 'My Lord' etc., instead he acted as if they were old fellows. Yet it was made clear it was the first occasion when he met the King and his queen. Also the knighting ceremony looked oversimplified. In the end there is a fighting scene where Malagant strikes Lancelot with his sword clearly towards Lancelot's foot, yet in the next change of viewpoint the sword is almost at the height of his neck - not only this small discrepancy, but Lancelot also seems to shriek out of pain just PRIOR to having been hit. I liked the Excalibur 'high-speed' effect near the end.

A story of knighthood and of King Arthur, also a nice story, and the acting performances are fine, there is also enough continuous action not become boring - not as much swordfighting as I expected though.

All in all, if you like films of knighthood and medieval themes, you'll probably like this well acted and action oriented adventure too - just ignore the hollywood kitch and glitter, and never mind the unlikelyhood and modern look of some events. If you are a huge fan or Arthur and the knights of the round table, you might want to consider seeing some other adaptation, though. Generally, its not a bad film. Just very hollywood and somewhat superficial with a few bloopers.