Review of Ironclad (2011) by The D — 19 Apr 2012

A much above average medieval romp sees a group of rebels tasked by the church to reclaim Rochester Castle from the hands of King John who after signing the Magna Carta then enlists the help of mercenaries from the continent to execute all who forced him to sign it. This was at the behest of The Pope. To capture the castle would give the victor full control Southern England.

Led by a templar, Marshall(Purefoy), & Albany(Cox) a small team of rebels is assembled and successfuly takes command of the castle awaiting the aid of the French which infortunately & not surprisingly slow in coming.

From this point the film takes on the siege mentallity as the rebels determination never wilts as the stand their ground admirably.

It's a very well made movie. The battle scenes are excellent and come with the sort of Flesh & Blood you would expect from a film set during this time. It's certainly not for the faint hearted.

Then you have a strong cast which, as well as Purefoy & Cox includes Derek Jacobi, Jason Flemyng, MacKenzie Crook, Jamie Foreman, Kate Mara & last but not least Paul Giamatti who's portrayal of King George almost lends a comic turn as it is very similar to that of Shrek's Lord Farquaad. Having said that, it is a good thing not a bad thing.

Well worth seeing.

4/5 Stars.