A KNIGHT’S WAR

In the eighties we were bombarded with fantasy films. Most notably, the sub-genre of dark fantasy films. Hell, the most successful toy line in the eighties was He-Man and the Masters of the Universe, a toy line set in a dark fantasy realm. A Knight’s War is a refreshing call-back of the dark, really dark fantasy films of the 80’s. An infernal nightmare with a brooding tone. An small indie film rich in fantasy tropes destined to be labeled a cult classic. Filling a void of kind of films greatly missed by Gen Xers such as myself. 

The story is simple, a knight out to rescue the Chosen One in the hellish underworld as he encounters witches, and of course demons. But the conflict isn’t just against the formidable foes, but within the Knight himself. Directed, written, starred and produced by Matthew Ninaber, along with his brother being the lead star, the film is a hallmark to those with the passion and commitment to making films.  Although made with a small-budget it has no reason to look and feel larger than it is. The scope is outstandingly presented. Clever set production and the right use of CGI and practical effects is applauded here. What really carries the film is the great costume and wow, outstanding gaffing with what little resources at their disposal. The passion of filmmaking is palpable throughout the film. If there is a notable concern for the film is that it moves at a snail’s pace, and it is stuffed with an abundance of talking head scenes. 
Timing in the movie industry is everything, and this film has great timing. To be ahead of trends and strike at the right time to send out this film can carry this and possibly make a profit out of it.  Especially since it wears  its filmmaking passion on its sleeve. I champion people making films as great as they can with such little resources at their disposal. A KNIGHT’S WAR won’t be the darling of many film critics, but fans of this genre will enjoy what they get from it, a large serving of  familiar atmosphere and tropes of a dark fantasy film. . So familiar that it reminds me of my favorite quote about war:  “Those who are at war with others are not at peace with themselves.” William Hazlitt