Just a few months ago, I got to tackle Crusader Kings II. I wrote about the Crusades and plenty of great movies. But, now it’s time about Crusader Kings III and a different set of movies. Yes, there are plenty of great crusader movies, and I’m going to focus on the ones I didn’t mention in my previous post.
However, the reason for this post is the upcoming Crusader Kings III game. It’s scheduled to be released very shortly, and we have it as a pre-purchasing option here at IndieGala. Seriously, the offer will expire shortly, so if you enjoyed Crusader Kings II, then you’ll love Crusader Kings III as well.
But What’s Crusader Kings III All About?
Developed by Paradox Development Studio and published by Paradox Interactive, Crusader Kings III is an upcoming grand strategy game set in the Middle Ages. Furthermore, the game is a dynasty simulator set in the Middle Ages. And will run from the Viking Age to the Fall of Byzantium. However, unlike its predecessor, at launch, it will only have two start dates: 867 and 1066. And of course, thanks to the intricate dynasty simulator you’ll get to shape the dynasty you’ll choose. Also, you’ll get to rewrite Medieval history, and choose your settings. Among other things.
Choosing The Right Century For Crusader Kings III Movies
All, right now. Since I already made a nice little list of good crusade themed movies, I figured it’s best not to repeat myself. So, in order to write this post, I chose movies that are set mainly in the 9th and 11th centuries. Not particularly movies that have the crusades as a main plot, but movies that are set in that time-frame. The very dark and bleak Middle ages and the ongoing Crusades. Some are old, while some are new and more contemporary. Some are English-speaking movies, while some of them are not. I’ve seen some of them just recently, while the other’s I’ve not seen in a long time. And that’s OK. Let’s begin, shall we?
The Vikings
I actually watched The Vikings during one of the many lock-downs. And I can safely say that I loved it. What can I say? I’m a sucker for Tony Curtis movie. And surprisingly he did The Vikings and my all-time favorite Sweet Smell Of Success back to back in a short span in just 2 years. He would star opposite Kirk Douglas again in Spartacus, but the Vikings is also an incredible movie. Tony and Kirk play half-brothers and arch enemies that will happen to fall in love with the same woman. Tony Curtis’s real-life wife that is. The fight and sword scenes are some of the best I’ve seen. The acting is great and I loved the outdoor locations as well. A true Swashbuckler epic. They sure don’t make them like this anymore. If you’re interested in more viking themed movies, I have a list for that as well.
Pope Joan
Although I liked the book that this movie is based on, I also like the film adaptation. That is a rarity for me since I rarely love film adaptations. The books are always the better option, if you ask me, but this was a fairly decent attempt. However, the movie (for those of you that aren’t familiar with the synopsis) is about the legend of Johanna. A woman who disguised herself as a man, and slowly but surely got to the rank of a pope.
Pope Joan hasn’t got the finest example of good acting, but the costumes and the set pieces are really good. And I’m always excited to see Iain Glenn in a movie, even if it’s a tiny role as this particular one. Surprisingly David Wenham was also decent in Pope Joan, and overall I liked the movie. The pacing lacks continuity, and the plot really overstays its welcome in the 150 minutes long run-time. But it’s a decent movie set in the middle ages. I recommend it.
The War Lord
If you’re a fan of dark, gritty and moody movies about medieval knights than this is the perfect pick for you. And if you’re also a fan of Charlton Heston, then you have some nice bonus points. Furthermore, Heston is really good here. He’s really giving one of his best performances ever, and so are the fighting scenes. One might say, they were ahead of its time, and so is the outdoor photography. And in my previous post, I mentioned El Cid.
Another great movie with the great Charlton Heston in the lead role. But I feel that the role of the Norman knight Chrysagon de la Cruex suits him better. Yes, the dialogue is a bit cliché, but for 1965 it was perfectly acceptable. Furthermore, the movie has one of the most accurate portrayals of feudalism in Europe. It’s a really good movie for a Sunday evening enjoyment. If you’re into dark, gloomy and moody movies it’s perfect.
Pathfinder
No, I’m not talking about the 2007 loose remake with Karl Urban in the lead role. I told you, there will be movies from different decades and even languages here. Well, this particular pick is from 1987 and it’s in Northern Sami language. It’s actually a very brutal and violent movie which I can’t believe my mom let me watch when I was a kid. Also, based on a legend, Pathfinder blends elements of folklore and mysticism to portray the journey of a boy to manhood. It has action, romance, beautiful outdoor nature shots and the photography are also top-notch. Oh, and the interesting thing about it is the fact that the main villain doesn’t say a god damn word in the entire movie. Cool right? I thought so too.
Your Take On The Crusader Kings III Inspired movies:
Which movies would you add here? Which ones are your favorites? Tell us in the comment section. We’d love to know all about them.
