Oct. 13, 2021|United States | United Kingdom|152 Min.|R
Genre: Action;Drama;History
Description: “The Last Duel” is a 2021 epic historical drama directed by Ridley Scott, with a screenplay by Nicole Holofcener, Ben Affleck, and Matt Damon. Based on Eric Jager’s 2004 book, “The Last Duel: A True Story of Trial by Combat in Medieval France,” the film is set in medieval France. It follows Jean de Carrouges, played by Damon, a knight who challenges his former friend, squire Jacques Le Gris, portrayed by Adam Driver, to a judicial duel. This occurs after Jean’s wife, Marguerite, played by Jodie Comer, accuses Jacques of raping her. The narrative unfolds in three chapters, each presenting the perspectives of the main characters. Ben Affleck also appears in a supporting role as Count Pierre d’Alençon.
The project was initially announced in 2015 but wasn’t officially greenlit until July 2019. Filming took place in France and Ireland from February to October 2020, with delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The film premiered at the Venice Film Festival on September 10, 2021, and was released in U.S. theaters on October 15, 2021, by 20th Century Studios.
Critics praised the performances and production quality, drawing comparisons to Akira Kurosawa’s “Rashomon” (1950). However, it underperformed at the box office, earning only $29 million against a $100 million budget.
The story begins with Jean de Carrouges and Jacques Le Gris pledging loyalty to Count Pierre d’Alençon, who has been appointed Jean’s overlord by King Charles VI. When Jean struggles financially, he marries Marguerite de Thibouville, securing her dowry and land rights. However, Count Pierre has already granted one of the estates to Jacques, leading to a legal dispute dismissed by the king.
Cast director: Ridley Scott
Cast actor: Matt Damon, Adam Driver, Jodie Comer, Ben Affleck, Marton Csokas, Harriet Walter, Nathaniel Parker, Tallulah Haddon, Alex Lawther, Adam Nagaitis
Original name: The Last Duel