The Green Knight

Movie Trailer

Release Date
July 30, 2021

Genre
Fantasy, Drama, Adventure

Cast & Crew

• Dev Patel as Sir Gawain
• Alicia Vikander as Essel / The Lady
• Joel Edgerton as The Lord
• Sarita Choudhury as Mother (Morgan le Fay)
• Sean Harris as King Arthur
• Ralph Ineson as The Green Knight
• Barry Keoghan as Scavenger

Director
David Lowery

Other Movies Director is Known For

• A Ghost Story (2017)
• The Old Man & the Gun (2018)
• Pete’s Dragon (2016)
• Ain’t Them Bodies Saints (2013)

Producer
Tim Headington, Toby Halbrooks, James M. Johnston, David Lowery

Writer
David Lowery (screenplay), based on the 14th-century poem “Sir Gawain and the Green Knight”

Budget
Estimated at $15 million

Production Company
A24, Ley Line Entertainment, Bron Studios, Sailor Bear

Running Time
130 minutes

Languages
English

Maturity Rating
R

Content Advisory

• Violence
• Sexual content
• Disturbing imagery
• Mature themes

Movie Story
“The Green Knight” is a visually stunning and philosophically rich retelling of the 14th-century Arthurian legend of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight. Directed by David Lowery, the film follows the journey of Sir Gawain (Dev Patel), King Arthur’s reckless and impetuous nephew, who seeks to prove his honor and courage by accepting the challenge of the mysterious Green Knight (Ralph Ineson).

The story begins on Christmas Day, when the Green Knight arrives at King Arthur’s court, presenting a game: any knight may strike him with his axe, but in return, they must seek him out in one year to receive an equal blow. Gawain, eager to prove himself, beheads the Green Knight, who astonishingly picks up his head and rides away, reminding Gawain of the oath to meet him at the Green Chapel in a year’s time.

As the year passes, Gawain embarks on a perilous journey to fulfill his promise, facing a series of trials that test his character, resolve, and understanding of chivalry. Along the way, he encounters thieves, ghosts, giants, and a mysterious Lord (Joel Edgerton) and Lady (Alicia Vikander), each encounter forcing Gawain to confront his own mortality, honor, and the true meaning of knighthood.

The film is a meditation on the themes of fate, honor, and the passage of time, with Gawain’s journey representing a quest for identity and purpose. Lowery’s adaptation stays true to the enigmatic and allegorical nature of the original poem while infusing it with modern sensibilities and a surreal, dreamlike atmosphere.

Special Effects
“The Green Knight” excels in its use of visual effects and cinematography to create a world that is both enchanting and unsettling. The film’s special effects are subtle but effective, enhancing the mystical elements of the story without overshadowing the narrative. The design of the Green Knight himself, a towering, tree-like figure, is a particular highlight, blending practical effects with CGI to create an otherworldly presence.

The cinematography, by Andrew Droz Palermo, plays a crucial role in establishing the film’s tone, with its use of natural landscapes, moody lighting, and rich color palettes creating a world that feels both ancient and timeless. The film’s visual style is heavily influenced by medieval art and literature, with each frame meticulously crafted to evoke the era’s mythic grandeur.

Box Office Performance
“The Green Knight” was released in theaters by A24 and received positive reviews from critics, though its challenging and unconventional narrative meant it was not a typical box office blockbuster. Despite this, the film performed well relative to its modest budget, grossing over $18 million worldwide. Its release was highly anticipated, particularly among fans of arthouse cinema and fantasy, solidifying its status as a cult favorite.

Filming Locations

• County Wicklow, Ireland
• Ardmore Studios, Ireland

Notable Quotes

• “Is this really all there is?” – Sir Gawain
• “One year hence.” – The Green Knight
• “Why greatness? Why is goodness not enough?” – Essel

Behind-the-Scenes
David Lowery’s vision for “The Green Knight” was to create a film that felt both timeless and contemporary, capturing the essence of the original poem while making it accessible to modern audiences. The film was shot on location in Ireland, with the rugged landscapes and ancient ruins providing the perfect backdrop for Gawain’s journey. Dev Patel’s casting as Gawain was seen as a bold choice, bringing a fresh perspective to the character and earning widespread acclaim for his performance.

Awards

• Nominated for 5 Critics’ Choice Super Awards (including Best Actor in a Science Fiction/Fantasy Movie – Dev Patel)
• Nominated for a Saturn Award (Best Fantasy Film)
• Won multiple awards from critics’ circles for cinematography and production design

Final Verdict
“The Green Knight” is a mesmerizing and thought-provoking film that challenges conventional storytelling in favor of a more poetic and meditative approach. With its stunning visuals, haunting atmosphere, and strong performances, particularly from Dev Patel, the film is a must-see for fans of arthouse cinema and those interested in a deeper exploration of myth and legend. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the complexities of heroism.

IMDb Rating
6.6/10