“Redbad” (2018) is a historical epic film directed by Roel Reiné. The film stars Gijs Naber, Jonathan Banks, and Søren Malling, and is set in the early Middle Ages during the turbulent period of the 8th century. It chronicles the life and struggles of Redbad, a legendary Frisian king, as he battles against the invading Frankish forces and the spread of Christianity.
The story begins with Redbad (Gijs Naber), the son of the Frisian king Aldigisl (René van het Hof), witnessing the defeat and forced conversion of his people by the Franks, led by Pepin of Herstal (Jonathan Banks) and his son Charles Martel (Søren Malling). Following the defeat, Redbad’s father dies, and Redbad himself is captured and humiliated.
Redbad escapes his captors and embarks on a journey of self-discovery and vengeance. He finds refuge with the Vikings, led by King Wiglek (Joost Bolt), and learns their ways, becoming a skilled warrior. Throughout his journey, Redbad grapples with his destiny, the clash between paganism and Christianity, and his desire to reclaim his homeland.
As Redbad returns to his people, he rallies the Frisians and other Germanic tribes to rise against the Frankish oppression. The film climaxes with epic battles as Redbad leads his forces in a fight for freedom and the preservation of their pagan beliefs against the advancing Christian Franks.
“Redbad” is noted for its grand scale, featuring impressive battle scenes, historical settings, and detailed costumes that aim to capture the essence of the early medieval period. The film explores themes of cultural conflict, faith, and identity, portraying Redbad as a symbol of resistance against the forced Christianization of the pagan tribes.
Despite its ambitious scope and historical significance, “Redbad” received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the film for its action sequences, production values, and Gijs Naber’s performance as the titular character. However, others criticized it for its length, pacing issues, and historical inaccuracies.
The film also sparked discussions about its portrayal of historical events and characters, with some historians and viewers debating its accuracy and interpretation of the period. Nonetheless, “Redbad” offers a cinematic glimpse into a lesser-known chapter of European history, highlighting the struggles of the Frisian people and their legendary leader.
“Redbad” contributes to the genre of historical epics by bringing to life the dramatic and tumultuous era of the early Middle Ages, emphasizing the themes of resistance and the clash of cultures that shaped the course of history.
