The Arthurian legends were the YA novels of their day. Full of magic, humanism, drama, and adventure, they carry the epic traits of so many of the modern tales we get wrapped up in. Now those tales have returned, boasting the influences of so many of the stories it helped to birth (Harry Potter, Star Wars): the oafishly wise mentor, the unassuming hero, the otherworldly foes, the good-hearted sidekicks. It's a plot as old as time and as predictable as any old fable, but with strong characters and cool lore, The Kid Who Would Be King manages to be forgettable, childish fun.
When young Alex finds and removes a sword from a cinder block, it becomes clear that he may be the descendant of King Arthur himself. Joined by a team of outcast schoolmates, they go on an Amblin-esque quest, including the action ingenuity and lovable loser protagonists of beloved films like Goonies. On the same note, it also includes the obnoxious tendencies of those 80s films that parents squint their eyes at (constant yelling, demonizing of adults). Luckily, director Cornish displays a care rarely seen in modern live-action kids fare, as proved by big themes like modern politics and little details like dirty fingernails.
Ultimately though, this is a silly little movie, which isn't a bad thing. The hero's-journey opening and the final battle are a blast, combining the best elements of Home Alone, Hook, and even Lord of the Rings, and its calling card in those moments is its over-the-top-ness. Do I wish it was maybe either more substantive or more overtly juvenile? Sure. But my 6-year-old was fully engrossed throughout, so what do I know?
