(2011, Jonathan English)
James Purefoy (Rome), Brian Cox, Paul Giamatti, Jason Flemyng, Derek Jacobi, Mackenzie Crook (The Office, Pirates of the Caribbean) and Kate Mara star in this independently produced film about the event surrounding the 13th century siege of Rochester Castle. King John (Giamatti) goes up against a knight Templar and the Baron Albany as they attempt to enforce the rule of Magna Carta which John signed but refuses to follow. Styled after the Magnificent Seven or Seven Samurai this movie has some nice elements but in the end fails on a number of fronts-- mostly (it would seem) related to budget constraints.
The reason this film should be viewed is for the Director's Commentary. It is really well done and is quite detailed as it delves into the various directorial sensibilities which influenced Jonathan English as well as the various choices and techniques which informed the creation of the film in practical terms. The film gets a 5/7 the commentary gets 7/7.
Trailer
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