Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

King Arthur: Legend of the Sword is the first entry in Guy Ritchie's six-part epic that will sadly and more likely not see the light of day because of people letting critics judge a film for them instead of seeing it themselves, on top of releasing it right after Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2. When Arthur discovers he is the "born king" and heir to the throne of Camelot, Vortigen, who stole the throne from Arthur's father Uther Pendragon, fights to destroy all that is good while Arthur fights for the people, and for his name. The film stands on its own for being a big, bold, brash and visceral experience, boasting Ritchie's signature flair in massive, cinematic fashion. The visuals are brilliant and the cinematography breath-taking, with shot after shot of open countrysides, old cityscapes, and towering castles blended with the fast-paced nature of Ritchie's action and plotting that moves at a brisk pace. But, while it does move quickly, it doesn't take away from the development of Arthur, who is played impossibly well by Charlie Hunnam in a role he was truly born to be in. While sarcastic and lacking humility, he grows into the king he was meant to be, realizing his purpose in the darkest hour. Jude Law is utter brilliance as Vortigen, who is a villian you'll love to hate. Diabolical, cunning, and manic, he goes the distance to gain the power he desires, at any cost. The supporting cast is incredibly solid, especially the "lads" who help Arthur become legend, from Game of Thrones' Aiden Gillen to Oscar winner Djimon Hounsou. But, another big star of the movie doesn't come from the cast, but from the composer. Daniel Pemberton's musical score is an astounding masterpiece. It grips you to your seat and pounds your eardrums with scathing screams and heavy breathing, only to soothe with heart-wrenching violas and cellos. The script finds an interesting balance of humor and horror at the reign of Vortigen, and it works thanks to Ritchie's direction. Of all his films, this is not his best, but it's his most entertaining and easily accessible, due in no small part to the main man. But, the big issue that both hinders and compliments the film is the disclaimer above: this is the first film in a franchise. It is the first adventure of Arthur and his Knights of the Roundtable. It works on its own, but is understandable to hear people disappointed with this outing with the born king. King Arthur: Legend of the Sword is a fun and thrilling adventure that shows how the man became a king, and takes us into a world of magic and mystery the likes of which have not been seen in such a way. I hope this film does impossibly well overseas, because the entire saga needs to happen.