The Green Knight: A confusing and beautiful legend
December 17, 2021
The Green Knight is a movie telling of the old Danish folk tale of “Sir Gawain and the Green Knight” and follows King Arthur’s nephew, Gawain, as he embarks on a quest to find the The Green Knight. He embarks on this quest to uphold his end of a bargain that requires someone to strike The Green Knight. He must travel to find the msyterious knight, and have the blow returned in equal measure.
The film’s cinematography is at the core of the movie and is the main thing that keeps the viewer entertained. If it weren’t for the artistry and visuals in this film, I think it would’ve been incredibly boring. The film doesn’t make any attempt to explain everything that happens, and I think a lot of viewers aren’t used to that. It is definitely an acquired taste.
Along Gawain’s pilgrimage, we meet many creatures and see many sights, from the vibrant colors of the forest to the bleak gray mountains in which mysterious giants roam. In my humble opinion, this film is a lesson in world building and cinematography.
Dev Patel, whom you might know from movies like Lion, Hotel Mumbai and Slumdog Millionaire, plays the character Gawain. He delivers a great performance, playing Gawain as scared and confused, yet determined.
The movie calls into question what makes a man worthy and honorable and illustrates the consequences of one’s actions. If you decide to watch it, and I hope you do, the film will leave you with more questions than you started with.
It’s a bizarre, confusing,, and mesmerizing experience, and I truly hope you see ot for yourself.