Americans have limited knowledge about the national heroes of other countries. Each culture has its own fascinating stories from history or mythology, which are often only appreciated by locals. The most effective way to introduce foreigners to these legendary figures is by portraying them as epic heroes in modern cinema. This approach was successfully employed in the creation of Medieval, a film that recounts the story of Jan Žižka.
There exists a significant subgenre of historical films that utilize techniques typically used in fantasy cinema. When a true story adaptation has the potential to feature dragons at any moment, it creates a unique and captivating experience. Historical narratives do not have to be dull documentaries; films like Medieval showcase the adaptability and artistic freedom inherent in the medium.
What is Medieval about?
Medieval recounts the story of Jan Žižka, a revered figure in Czech history known for his military prowess. Jan serves as a mercenary under the command of Lord Boresh, a cunning political mastermind. Boresh's goal is to secure power for Wenceslaus IV, who is supposedly the rightful King of Bohemia and the Holy Roman Emperor. However, Wenceslaus's brother, Sigismund, seeks to overthrow him with the support of the influential Henry III of Rosenberg. Seeing Henry as a threat to the nation, Boresh is willing to resort to underhanded tactics to weaken him.
Jan is given the mission to kidnap Katherine, Henry's intended bride, in order to compel Henry to uphold his commitment and support King Wenceslaus. Jan and his mercenaries successfully abduct Katherine, but this sets off a series of significant political upheaval. In retaliation, Sigismund hires mercenaries, led by Torak, Jan's former mentor, to rescue Katherine and seek revenge. Utilizing his insider knowledge and military strength, Torak launches a swift attack on Jan's home, killing his nephew and taking his brother hostage. In order to defeat Torak, Jan must rally his local peasants, lead his troops, and utilize all of his strength. Throughout their trials, Katherine finds herself falling in love with Jan, leading to an unexpected mission to rescue him.
With the fate of the nation hanging in the balance, Jan must confront his former mentor and defeat him in order to reinstate the rightful king. This brutal tale of treachery and violence highlights the extraordinary power of Jan Žižka, the national hero of the Czech people, and the cruel existence he endured to attain it.
How does Medieval relate to Skyrim?
In Medieval, similar to Skyrim, the narrative revolves around a solitary hero immersing themselves within the nightmarish moral landscape of the era. What sets the film apart is how it portrays Jan Žižka as a destined hero. Jan's exceptional qualities extend beyond physical strength, unlike in many historical epics where might is showcased through conquering adversaries. He possesses wisdom, humor, charisma, strength, and a perpetually conflicted nature. Though his methods may be gruesome, his ultimate goal is righteousness. Jan's greatest ability lies in rallying the masses, lending strength to the afflicted and instilling hope in the people of Bohemia, empowering them to fight.
Undoubtedly, inspirational figures like Jan Žižka influenced the creation of Skyrim's Dragonborn. The legendary chosen hero in any fantasy tale owes its existence to works like Medieval. If Skyrim were a real nation, its residents would undoubtedly produce a film resembling Medieval about the awe-inspiring Dragonborn. The film effectively captures the intense and brutal excitement of the game's action, its visual aesthetic is strikingly similar, and its somber tone mirrors the game's moments of despair. Despite their similarities, the most intriguing parallel lies in the concept of the legendary hero, which transcends cultures, even within fictional realms.
How does Medieval end?
Jan enlists the help of local peasants to save Katherine and his brother from Torak, resulting in a brutal confrontation and the loss of Jan's eye. Torak flees with Katherine to Henry's castle, fatally injuring Boresh in the process. Jan confronts Torak, but it is Katherine's sacrifice that allows him to gain the upper hand. Jan drags Torak into the water and kills him. Despite Jan's victory, Sigismund assumes the throne after Wenceslaus' death. Jan leads a uprising against the new king, with the people of Bohemia rallying behind him. In a powerful final scene, Jan leads a medieval tank into a pivotal battle, showcasing his importance in history.
Medieval is an intriguing film, akin to Braveheart for a lesser-known nation. While it may have some flaws, such as excessive exposition, the action is intense, captivating, and unique. The film delves into historical details that can be fascinating, although they might be overwhelming for those unfamiliar with the subject matter. However, its true accomplishment lies in introducing Jan Žižka to the world and highlighting his heroic legacy, which definitely deserves recognition through a film of this nature.
