Arn: The Knight Templar (2007/E1 DVD)
Picture:
B- Sound: B- Extras: C Film: A
Arn was
raise by priests, but trained to become a skilled swordsman. After breaking the vow of chastity he is
exiled for 20 years to the Holy Lands to serve as his penance. In the Holy Lands he defends Jerusalem and became
a Templar Knight to fight the armies of Saladin, but even after many battles,
victories and becoming a war hero there, he was finally release to go home. When he finally returns home he find a civil
war is brewing and he takes up arms once more.
This time, to defend his homeland and the people he loves in Peter
Flinth’s Arn: The Knight Templar
(2007).
This is a
great film, filled with epic combat, tragedy, chivalry and even a bit of
romance. Based on the books written by Jan
Guillo (Crusades Trilogy), the movie spins a
tale of one man and his quest to return home with honor. Unlike most Templar Knights, the main
character Arn fights in the Crusades not for glory, but to return home. He has no wish to fight, but duty and righteousness
compels him as he leads the Templar Knights into battle. He becomes a shining example among the knights;
he is resented by his own peers but gains the respect of his enemies.
If you like knights and stories from this period, then this film is for you. Filled with beautiful costumes, scenery and
wonderful actors including Joakim Natterqvist in the title role, Stellan
Skarsgard (Mamma Mia!, Hunt For Red October, Good Will Hunting, the original Insomnia), Michael Nyqvist (original Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, Mission: Impossible IV), Nicholas
Boulton (Topsy Turvy), Vincent Perez
(Indochine), Simon Callow (Amadeus, Maurice), Gustaf Skarsgard and the legendary Bibi Andersson, they
are all great. As you watch, you sympathize
with the main character, torn from his lover, sent thousands of miles away to
fight a war that isn't his. He loses
everything. One man own dedication,
sense of justice and mercy, earned him the respect of his enemies and made him
a leader of the country that exile him. A warrior, but with a heart of monk, the very
meaning of chivalry. This is very well
made.
The
anamorphically enhanced 2.35 X 1 image was shot in the Super 35mm film format
by Director of Photography Eric Kress (the original Girl With The Dragon Tattoo) and creates a good looking film that
is very enjoyable to watch, with a transfer that is very impressive for
DVD. The Dolby Digital 5.1 mix is also
engaging and offers consistent surrounds.
Extras include behind the scenes footage and trailers.
- Ricky Chiang
