Why The Last Kingdom's Uhtred Book Conclusion Isn't Fit for the 2023 Film Adaptation

Uhtred's (Alexander Dreymon) book ending would not have fit into The Last Kingdom: Seven Kings Must Die movie due to a few reasons. The movie focuses on Uhtred's final adventure as he strives to unite England during a precarious period, which is the central theme of the story. This differs from the events in the books that serve as the basis for the show and movie.

The Saxon Stories contain various subplots that are not depicted in the film, such as Uhtred's marriage to Eldrida before he can become Lord of the North. In the books, this storyline is filled with intrigue and political maneuvering as Uhtred is compelled to marry by the King, despite having a lover. However, including this plotline in the movie would have felt out of place, so the filmmakers made a wise decision to omit it.

Uhtred's Book Marriage Was Too Much For Seven Kings Must Die

Uhtred (Alexander Dreymon) clasping hands at the end of The Last Kingdom: Seven Kings Must Die - Uhtred's Book Marriage Was Too Much For Seven Kings Must Die

Uhtred's Last Relationship Repeats A Last Kingdom Season 1 Story

Uhtred's journey in Seven Kings Must Die involves facing off against both new enemies and former allies in numerous violent clashes as the prophecy unfolds. The movie primarily delves into themes of survival and political scheming, making it difficult to incorporate a romantic storyline. Uhtred's focus is on determining who he can truly trust amidst the widespread betrayal depicted in the film. Given the constant duplicity and turmoil, Uhtred remains emotionally guarded and unavailable for any romantic entanglements. Furthermore, the movie's emphasis on swift action and battle sequences leaves little room for the development of a romantic subplot.

Uhtred (Alexander Dreymon) with his arms folded, looking offscreen with his group in The Last Kingdom  - Uhtred's Last Relationship Repeats A Last Kingdom Season 1 Story

Uhtred's final romance in the books mirrors one seen back in The Last Kingdom season 1 with Mildrith (Amy Wren). In the show, Uhtred's marriage to her was arranged by the King, just like what happens in the books with Eldrida. Including this story in the movie would have seemed predictable and repetitive for audiences who had already seen it before. It may have given the impression that Uhtred did not learn from his experience with Mildrith that such arrangements could have negative outcomes.

Uhtred is facing a tumultuous period in England's history in The Last Kingdom: Seven Kings Must Die. The film moves at a fast pace due to the ongoing unrest in the country. Introducing a romantic subplot, especially one that viewers are already familiar with, would have detracted from Uhtred's mission and the messy unification of England. The film deviates from Uhtred's book ending, so including his final marriage would have left the story on a confusing note. Destiny plays a significant role, but Uhtred's book marriage was destined to be overlooked for the better.

The Last Kingdom: Seven Kings Must Die can be streamed on Netflix.

Editor's P/S:

The article provides a well-reasoned explanation for why Uhtred's book ending was not suitable for the "The Last Kingdom: Seven Kings Must Die" movie. The movie's focus on Uhtred's journey to unite England and the themes of survival and political scheming make a romantic subplot feel out of place. Additionally, the inclusion of Uhtred's marriage from the books would have been repetitive and potentially confusing for viewers.

While some fans of the books may be disappointed by the omission of this storyline, it ultimately makes sense for the movie's narrative and pacing. The movie is a thrilling and satisfying conclusion to Uhtred's story, and it effectively captures the essence of the character and his struggles during this tumultuous period in English history.