Medieval ★★★
IN CASE you are not aware – as I wasn’t – Jan Žižka is a hero in Czech history, a Bohemian military commander who never lost a battle.
Director Petr Jákl’s tribute to Žižka is called Medieval and it’s the most expensive Czech film ever made. It focuses on Žižka’s early life as a mercenary knight in the early 14th Century and the events that led to him becoming a revered military leader.
As played by the always watchable Ben Foster, Žižka is a simple man but a formidable battle strategist and fiercely loyal to his men.
Wenceslas IV is both the king of Bohemia and Roman emperor, but his dual kingdom is falling apart under his weak rule and the formidable task of keeping so many united and compliant.
The country is actually ruled by his fierce rival, Henry III of Rosenberg, the most powerful nobleman in the country.
Žižka is hired to kidnap Rosenberg’s fiancée, Katherine, in an effort to force Rosenberg to keep his word and help Wenceslas IV be crowned emperor of the Holy Roman Empire.
The complexities of high politics see Wenceslaus’ brother King Sigismund send soldiers, led by Žižka’s mentor Torak, to get Katherine back. The ruthless tactics employed by Torak draw
Žižka in the conflict and a quest for revenge.
I’m not sure if all the events actually occurred, but they are presently simply and authentically enough to make for a rousing action thriller, highlighted by some impressively staged battle scenes that demonstrate the abilities that will lead Žižka to become a revered military leader.
Michael Caine, William Moseley and Matthew Goode are also in the international cast that complements the army of Czech actors.