Review by John Delia
The map of Great Brittan can be a bit confusing as it has minor separations much like Europe. To the north the land mass of England borders Scotland now a country of its own but still under the rule the Queen of Great Britain. It is separated by a border much like a state in America. Scotland became independent from England for a time following civil war with Robert the Bruce who declared Scotland’s sovereignty. Nearly 200 years ago, that point of history is the subject of Robert the Bruce’s rise from near death to lead his people to independence.
Robert the Bruce (Angus Macfadyen), in line to be King of England, meets with Sir John Comyn (Jared Harris) to discuss the situation between them and countryman William Wallace who lead one of the battles for independence. At the meeting there’s a sword fight ending with the death of Comyn. Robert flees the area offering his and the followers of Comyn to return to their homes. The act of Comyn’s death causes a bounty on Robert’s head of 60 gold and while wounded heads to the mountains on his own.
This story tells how one Scottish family living in the mountains became a part of the legend that leads to Robert becoming King of Scotland. Director Richard Gray tells his story in a mountainous region of Scotland. And a family that lost their father during fighting with warring factions, becomes a big part of that legend. He has a good able cast and works their characters well into the story line.
The locations and sets are as important to the story as the actors. The snow covered mountains, a small cabin, and a forest that will become their battleground against the men who want to kill Robert and claim the gold. Costumes take you back in time as do the swords, axes, bows and arrows used in the battles. It’s a good period piece in this respect and makes the film look historical.
However the legend, although an interesting one, is weak and unconvincing. The young children, oldest looks 16, could not have stood up against the warriors that come to take the still recovering Robert in a fight without big losses. I’m not disputing the legend, but it’s a bit over the top on whether it could have happened this way in reality.
The entertainment value is good for a fan base that would have considered Robin Hood a good choice. The acting surly is above par and the cinematography amazing showing the wide expansive views of the snow covered range, valleys and forest. I do like the performance of Anna Hutchison as the mother of the family in the cabin. She show that her heart in supporting Robert for independence and the survival of her children.
Robert the Bruce has not been rated by the MPAA, but contains graphic violence and blood. In some scenes arrows penetrate victims and other fighters get stabbed by knives and swords. Think PG-13 as a guide.
FINAL ANALYSIS: Only if you are a fan of historical lore. (2 out of 5 Stars)
Additional Film Information:
Cast: Angus Macfadyen, Anna Hutchison, Jared Harris, Patrick Fugit, Zach McGowan, Emma Kenney, Talitha Bateman, Gabriel Bateman, Kevin McNally, Brandon Lessard , Diarmaid Murtagh, Daniel Portman, Melora Walters
Directed by: Richard Gray
Genre: Action, History
MPAA Rating: Not Rated, bloody violence
Running Time: 2 hrs. 4 min.
Opening Date: April 24, 2020
Distributed by: Screen Media Films
Released in: Select theaters, check your local listings for a theater near you.