The 12 best medieval adventure films

The fascination with medieval, historical or fantasy adventures is widely popular, with fans all over the world. Narratives full of knights, battles, kings and queens, magic, fantastic creatures and magnificent scenery have survived throughout the centuries.

Cinema embraces this interest in medieval settings and offers a variety of films on the subject, some adapting major historical periods and events, others incorporating surprising features and combining them with more fantastical and magical approaches.

In this article we will explore the 12 best medieval adventure films.

Conan the Barbarian (1982)

A classic action-adventure film directed by John Milius and starring Arnold Schwarzenegger. This is an adaptation of the character by Robert E. Howard, following the travels of the barbarian Conan.

In the plot, Conan seeks revenge for the death of his parents by facing a dangerous sorcerer in search of the steel alloy, which will make his sword invincible.

The Lord of the Rings: The Trilogy (2001-2003)

Peter Jackson’s wildly successful adaptation of JRR Tolkien’s books. Winner of 17 Oscars, the trilogy achieved enormous critical and commercial success, often being remembered as one of the main works of the genre.

The story follows the Fellowship of the Ring’s epic quest to destroy the One Ring and defeat the evil Sauron. The stellar cast includes Ian McKellen, Liv Tyler, Viggo Mortensen, Cate Blanchett, Christopher Lee and Orlando Bloom

The Enchantment of the Eagle (1985)

A nostalgic film from the TV sessions of the 90s and 2000s, this is a Richard Donner production (from the Lethal Weapon series). The story mixes medieval adventures with fantastic elements.

The plot takes place in the 12th century, when the bishop of L’Aquila discovers that his beloved, Isabeau, is trapped by a curse: she transforms into a hawk by day, while he transforms into a wolf at night. To help them in this adventure they count on the help of Rat, an intelligent young man who escaped from the walls of L’Aquila.

The film features a famous ’80s cast, with Matthew Broderick, Michelle Pfeiffer and Alfred Molina.

Willow: In the Land of Magic (1988)

Directed by Ron Howard (The Da Vinci Code), this film is a typical 80s fantasy adventure. The plot takes place in a magical world with warriors, witches and prophecies.

The story revolves around Willow Ufgood, a dwarf sorcerer’s apprentice, who will have the help of a swordsman on her journey to protect a special child. According to the prophecy she will be the princess who will save the magical world from the terrible dominion of Queen Bavmorda.

The film stars Val Kilmer and is played by Warwick Davis, who returns in the series that continues the events of the film, released on Disney+ in 2022.

Excalibur (1981)

One of the most famous film adaptations of the story of King Arthur, directed by John Boorman and presenting an impressive and unique visual interpretation of the genre.

The plot follows the famous story of the magical sword Excalibur, chronicling Arthur’s journey from the moment he removes the sword from the stone, thus becoming the rightful king. The film explores the events that led to the formation of the Round Table, Arthur’s ascension to the throne, and his struggles to unify the kingdom of Camelot. Additionally, it addresses the complex relationship between Arthur, his wife Guinevere, and his best friend and faithful knight, Sir Lancelot.

Bloody Conquest (1985)

Directed by Paul Verhoeven (Robocop), it is a violent and bloody medieval epic. The film features Rutger Hauer (from The Sorcery of the Eagle and Blade Runner) and Jennifer Jason Leigh (The Hateful Eight) in the cast.

In the Middle Ages, the plot follows a group of mercenaries led by Martin (Hauer), who are betrayed by a feudal lord after completing a mission to reclaim their city. The group seeks revenge against the nobleman, thus kidnapping the wife of his son (Leigh). The story involves intrigue, betrayal and violent conflict, offering an intense and emotional experience.

The Thirteenth Warrior (1999)

Directed by John McTiernan (Die Hard and Predator), The 13th Warrior is an epic action adventure starring Antonio Banderas. The film is based on the novel “Eaters of the Dead” by Michael Crichton (Jurassic Park).

In the Middle Ages we follow Ahmed Ibn Fahdlan, an Arab poet who joins a group of Norse warriors on a mission to face a supernatural threat. The film features intense action scenes, set in a medieval fantasy setting.

The Last Duel (2021)

Directed by the famous Ridley Scott (Alien, Blade Runner), this film is a historical production based on a real duel in medieval France. The cast includes big names, such as Matt Damon, Adam Driver and Jodie Comer.

The story follows a noblewoman, the wife of a knight, who reports the abuse she suffers from a squire. To decide the future of the three involved in the case, the two men will have to duel to the death.

Crusade (2005)

Another film by Ridley Scott, set in the medieval period, but precisely at the time of the Crusades. “Crusade” is a medieval epic with a stellar cast, including Orlando Bloom, Liam Neeson and Eva Green.

The film tells the story of Balian de Ibelin (played by Bloom), a blacksmith who, after the sudden death of his wife, joins the crusaders traveling to Jerusalem.

Filled with grand battle scenes, the film explores the conflict between Christians and Muslims and the complexities of faith.

Outlaw King (2018)

Directed by David Mackenzie, Outlaw King is a historical epic set in 14th century Scotland. The cast includes big names like Chris Pine, Florence Pugh and Aaron Taylor-Johnson.

The film follows the story of Robert the Bruce, a rebel leader fighting for Scottish independence against English rule. The battle scenes are intense and realistic, highlighting the brutality of the war during that time.

Knight’s Heart (2001)

Lightweight medieval adventure that combines historical elements with a contemporary soundtrack. The film is a mix of humor, romance and action.

The film revolves around William Thatcher, played by Heath Ledger (The Joker from The Dark Knight), a commoner who assumes the identity of a knight to participate in tournaments.

Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among the Rebels

Action, adventure and comedy film based on the famous medieval fantasy role-playing game brand, one of the main works of the medieval adventure genre.

We follow the journey of a bard who, after the death of his wife, seeks companions in search of a magical relic that can bring her back to life. With Chris Pine in the lead role, the film stands out with special effects, action scenes and good humor.

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Rose

Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.