He Will Rock You|May. 11, 2001|United States|132 Min.|PG-13
Genre: Action;Adventure;Drama;Romance
Description: “A Knight’s Tale” (2001) is a captivating film that transports viewers to 14th-century Europe, a period marked by the aftermath of the Black Plague. The story begins at a jousting tournament where William Thatcher, a squire, and his companions, Roland and Wat, face a dire situation when their master, Sir Ector, dies just before winning the competition. Desperate, William dons Sir Ector’s armor, impersonates him, and claims the prize.
Though tournaments are reserved for nobles, William is determined to compete and win more accolades. Despite initial reluctance from Roland and Wat, William persuades them to stay and train with him. Along their journey, they meet Geoffrey Chaucer, a destitute writer who agrees to forge a noble patent for William, allowing him to enter tournaments under the alias “Sir Ulrich von Liechtenstein.” However, Chaucer’s gambling debts land William in trouble with Simon the Summoner and Peter the Pardoner. William secures Chaucer’s release by promising to settle the debt.
During the competition, William’s armor is severely damaged, but he convinces Kate, a skilled blacksmith, to repair it unpaid. He wins the sword event, earning enough to clear Chaucer’s debt. In the joust, William faces Sir Thomas Colville, who withdraws after being injured but retains his honor by completing a ceremonial pass. William’s growing affection for Jocelyn, a noblewoman, sparks rivalry with Count Adhemar of Anjou, who defeats William in the final joust. Adhemar mocks William with the cutting remark, “You have been weighed, you have been measured, and you have been found wanting.”
The film blends adventure, romance, and rivalry, offering a thrilling glimpse into medieval chivalry and ambition.
Cast director: Brian Helgeland
Cast actor: Heath Ledger, Rufus Sewell, Shannyn Sossamon, Paul Bettany, Laura Fraser, Mark Addy, Alan Tudyk, Bérénice Bejo, Scott Handy, James Purefoy
Original name: A Knight’s Tale