There’s no two ways about it – King Arthur: Legend of the Sword is far from legendary.
The film had so much promise – directed by British auteur Guy Ritchie, starring the charming and charismatic Charlie Hunnam in the title role with the king of villainy himself, Jude Law, as the antagonist.
But for all that promise the result is a shocking shambles of a movie that feels about four rounds of editing short of complete.
Ritchie has delivered hit after hit in his career – from Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels and Snatch to the Sherlock Holmes films and The Man from UNCLE – but frustratingly seems to have forgotten what made them successful.
Snappy editing, perfect pacing and a knowing sense-of-humour have been staples of his past work but in King Arthur audiences are instead treated to awkward pacing, unclear motivations and very little to laugh at.
It seems the filmmakers spent all their time on special effects (which for the most part are decent, if only they served the story better) and forgot to imbue their characters with a clear sense of purpose and clarity.
And it’s not the actors’ fault – Hunnam’s performance as Arthur is commendable and he looks fine wielding Excalibur.
Law is also supremely hateable as the usurper to the throne, giving a layered performance.
But there is too much sub-plot, too much setting up of other characters and plotlines for possible sequels, to allow their performances to shine.
What should have been a straightforward, tongue-in-cheek reimagining of the classic tale became an overblown mess that is not at all enjoyable.
Instead of the expected light fantasy, the film is heavy fantasy – opening with giant elephant battles and including a weird Ursula-like tentacle creature.
The film is a massive blow for fans of Ritchie’s work and likely for Hunnam’s chances of becoming an A-list actor.
It is sad to see so many talented people fail so miserably with such an expensive film.
One can only hope that Ritchie’s next big screen outing takes him back to his roots – but given he is expected to helm Disney’s live-action reboot of Aladdin that seems unlikely.
