Redbad (2018)

Redbad (2018) is a Dutch historical drama film directed by Roel Reiné. The film stars Gijs Naber, Jonathan Banks, Søren Malling, and Loes Haverkort, and it centers on the legendary figure of Redbad, a medieval Frisian king.
Set in the 8th century, the film follows the story of Redbad (Gijs Naber), the son of a Frisian king, who finds himself in the midst of a brutal struggle between the pagan tribes of northern Europe and the encroaching Frankish Empire, which seeks to spread Christianity by force. After witnessing the murder of his father and the subjugation of his people, Redbad is captured and left for dead by his enemies.
Surviving against the odds, Redbad is taken in by a group of Vikings who train him and help him regain his strength. With newfound allies and skills, Redbad returns to his homeland with a mission to unite the fragmented tribes of the north and lead them in a rebellion against the Franks and their Christian overlords.
As Redbad rises to power, he must navigate a treacherous landscape of political intrigue, shifting alliances, and fierce battles. His journey is marked by his struggle to reconcile his pagan beliefs with the changing world around him and to protect his people from the relentless advance of the Franks.
Redbad is noted for its grand battle sequences, historical settings, and its attempt to portray the cultural and religious conflicts of the period. The film explores themes of freedom, faith, and leadership, offering a depiction of a legendary figure who stands as a symbol of resistance against oppression.
The film received mixed reviews, with praise for its ambitious scope and visual appeal, but some criticism for its historical accuracy and character development. Nonetheless, it stands out as an epic portrayal of a lesser-known historical era and its complex, dynamic figures.