OUTLAW KING is a semi-sequel to the Mel Gibson classic BRAVEHEART, made over 20 years later and by Netflix of all people. You needn't worry about this being a low budget production, however, as it's actually the most expensive film ever made in Scotland, and an entirely visual experience in which the medieval era has never looked so realistic. From stunning scenery and authentic sets and props to lavish battle sequences in which CGI effects are integrated seamlessly with the real actors, this is a wonderful film to look at and behold. The story itself is straightforward, following Robert the Bruce's rise to become king of Scotland and his battles waged against Edwards I and II. There isn't a great deal of depth here, and the first half is quite slow, but that's not really a problem. Chris Pine does well with the material, perhaps not as charismatic as Gibson was but arguably more realistic. The supporting cast work very hard too, aside from Florence Pugh, but then it's not really her fault given her underwritten and extraneous role (she's only there to have a female character in the story). Elsewhere, the film doesn't shy away from the gore of the era, which is all for the better, and it builds to a climax that satisfies. Will a sequel follow? I hope so.
Review of Outlaw King
