*Medieval* (2022)

*Medieval* (2022) is a brutal, gritty historical epic that brings to life the story of Jan Žižka (Ben Foster), a legendary Czech military leader and mercenary known for his unorthodox tactics and fierce loyalty. Directed by Petr Jákl, the film is set in the early 15th century, a period rife with political upheaval, where kingdoms clash, and power-hungry nobles manipulate those beneath them to fulfill their ambitions. Amidst this backdrop, Žižka is hired to rescue a kidnapped noblewoman, Lady Katherine (Sophie Lowe), whose fate intertwines with larger political schemes that could plunge the region into chaos.

Foster brings intensity to Žižka, portraying him as a hardened warrior with both physical strength and a code of honor. The film doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of medieval warfare, capturing visceral, hand-to-hand combat sequences that are both bloody and raw. The battle scenes are choreographed with gritty realism, favoring brutal close-quarters combat that emphasizes the period’s violence and Žižka’s resourcefulness on the battlefield.

The cinematography captures the era’s grim atmosphere, with dark castles, rugged landscapes, and misty forests lending an authentic medieval feel. While the plot follows a familiar structure of political intrigue and heroism, it also delves into the moral ambiguity of warfare, exploring themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the struggle between personal values and survival.

*Medieval* is a hard-hitting, action-packed journey into history that immerses viewers in a raw, unforgiving world. Its dedication to realism, combined with Foster’s powerful performance, makes it a memorable historical drama for those interested in the brutal side of medieval warfare and the true story of a warrior who fought against overwhelming odds.