The Kid Who Would Be King – Film Review
Published November 26, 2023
Movie Details
Reimagining a classical tale can often veer into disappointment, as what was once charmingly antiquated can sometimes become disastrously outdated. However, with The Kid Who Would Be King, director Joe Cornish serves a gallant quest delicately brushed with nostalgia and festooned with 21st-century hues. Although some cracks appear on its armor, it is nevertheless an extremely fun time.
Stemming from the epic and ageless story of King Arthur and his sword Excalibur, Cornish’s approach astutely reintroduces this mythical story to a young audience. With the symbolic roundtable being substituted by the lunchroom table and squires turning into geeky schoolkids, this modern rendition casts a mesmerizing fusion of fantasy and reality that pays off exceptionally.
Alex (Louis Ashbourne Serkis) stars as the seemingly ordinary 12-year-old, who uncovers the fabled Excalibur, instantaneously tagging him as the neo-King Arthur. Alex, despite not donning Arthur’s royal garb or elaborate heraldry, evokes Arthur’s heroism by radiating determination, courage, and honorable spirit. Ashbourne Serkis, considering his age, captures these grand elements, carrying the burden of his kingdom—London, on his preteen shoulders impeccably. His remarkable interpretation adds up to Cornish’s exuberant vision.
In terms of supporting characters, Sir Patrick Stewart (Merlin) deserves a commendation for delivering some laugh-out-loud moments. Young actor Angus Imrie playing a youthful Merlin also mirrors Stewart’s charms flawlessly. Meanwhile, Tom Taylor (Lance) and Rhianna Dorris (Kaye) transcend being mere sidekicks by crafting memorable personas.
Technically, the film balances bewitching visuals and electrifying battles impressively. Yet, at some junctures, the extensive use of CGI creates a visual bombardment that sways the viewers away from the core story. Nevertheless, the production design, costumes, and overall visual appeal make for a unique blend of fantasy, perfect for both seasoned cinephiles and novice young viewers.
On the plot frontier, the screenplay seems to bend under its weighty mythical baggage. While The Kid Who Would Be King wins for seamlessly threading a mythical storyline into a contemporary context, it struggles with certain tropes like betrayals, moral lessons, and seemingly far-fetched narrative hooks. This clumsiness occasionally disrupts the film’s steady gallop.
There are also predictable scenes—high school bullies converted to allies, and typical showdowns. But these don’t necessarily curtail the film’s fun ride, instead offering comfort in familiarity. For a kids’ film, the storyline matures over its course, which serves as a good introduction to complicated themes like honor, sacrifice, and friendship.
Composer Electric Wave Bureau and cinematographer Bill Pope lend The Kid Who Would Be King a bold voice. The stirring background score exquisitely captures the dichotomy of contemporary London and the ageless kingdom of Camelot, while the film’s camera work cleverly fluctuates between close-ups and panoramic shots, plunging us into a visually stimulating world.
As for themes, Cornish keenly lays the foundation for unity, courage, and trust without excessively moralizing. The connection between friends, forgiveness, and the underlying essence of bravery: these come in subtleties, elevating the film’s pedagogical value. Also, by threading in topics of single parenthood and school bullying, it showcases how a fantasy film can house real issues and emotions. The thematic balancing act plays out excellently without overwhelming its young audience.
However, a niggling fault line exists—the film’s duration. The two-hour-plus running time becomes occasionally laborious, which could have been rectified by shaving off some overextended battle sequences.
The Kid Who Would Be King charms its audience with a plucky young cast, vivid visual language, and relatable themes woven into a majestic, classic narrative. Although it somewhat stumbles due to pacing issues and certain narrative choices, it manages to remain a delightful family watch. Its endearing amalgamation of ageless folklore and modern spirit earns it an impressive rating in my books. Ultimately, Cornish has delivered a triumphant tale for the smartphone generation about valiant kids brandishing neon lights in place of medieval swords—a well-spirited, comical, and emotional Arthurian roundtable for a new era.