CAST: Charlie Hunnam, Jude Law, Eric Bana, Astrid Berges-

Frisbey, Djimon Hounsou

DIRECTION: Guy Ritchie

GENRE: Action

DURATION: 2 hours 6 minutes

STORY

Clueless about his legacy, Arthur (Charlie Hunman) grows up in the black alleys of the city, resisting his prophecy. But he is forced to acknowledge his blue blood once he pulls the sword from the stone like Thor’s hammer, unleashing the evil in his uncle Vortigern (Jude Law). Can he reclaim his honour and lead the resistance.

REVIEW

As expected, this is Arthur’s origin story and is reminiscent of The Lion King.While we often believe that the visuals of an Indian action/ adventure are not a patch on Hollywood films, the tables seem to have finally turned. We can now proudly say that Baahubali (belonging to the same genre) beats this film hollow, when it comes to its scale, grandeur, opulence, storytelling and even emotional quotient.

Of course Guy Ritchie has a unique style and if you fancy his idea of cool, this erratic film revolving around the Arthurian legend is bound to engage you. Replete with Ritchie’s trademark fast to slow-mo action cuts, witty oneliners, exciting chase sequences, elaborate sets and a swashbuckling hero who is always two steps ahead of his enemies, this action adventure keeps you on tenterhooks.

While Hunman makes for an impressive Guy Ritchie’s Arthur, it is Jude Law, who turns out to be a total stunner, making evil look sexy. He is cold, cruel and irresistible. After playing Watson with much élan, his collaboration with the Sherlock director in a much diverse role does wonders for them once again. Hunman is delightful too. Astrid Berges- Frisbey makes her presence felt and Eric Bana is likable as usual as the righteous king.

What doesn’t work is a rather embarrassing guest appearance by David Beckham and Guy Ritchie himself. Also, the visual effects in 3D seem pretty messed up after a while.

Despite the inconsistency in pace and vision behind this unique take on the legend of Arthur, Ritchie pulls it off in style. This may not be one of his best works but it entertains, nonetheless. Daniel Pemberton’s music deserves a special mention too.