Having doubts about the pagan rituals of his fathers’ people, Redbad (Naber) starts to become disillusioned when the woman he loves is offered as a sacrifice. Whilst coming into conflict with his father, the Frisians are caught off guard as Frankish forces invade Dorestad. Having lost their territory and leader during the conflict, Redbad is tied to a raft and pushed to sea for going against the will of his people. Washed up on Viking land, he slowly starts to earn their trust and build a new life before finding out his sister has been married off to Charles Martel, son of the Frankish King. Vowing to get her back he begins to build an army to go up against the Franks and take back the land they stole.
Directed by Roel Reiné, Redbad is a Dutch film which holds the unfortunate honour of being the country’s biggest box office bomb. Failing to attract an audience, the producers cited a number of reasons for its miserable performance with warm weather, the World Cup and blockbuster competition all being potential factors for its downfall. Having also received negative reviews from major Dutch newspapers, things haven’t gone so well for Holland’s unsung hero.
Visually, Redbad is a very good looking movie, with Reiné’s stylish cinematography giving the whole production an aura of a big budget release. The sets look authentic and the score by Trevor Morris manages to ebb and flow throughout giving an almost majestical feel too much of the action. With some jaw-dropping shots, Reine has managed to exceed himself on such a tight budget and whilst the performances may not be the best, they’re good enough to keep one’s attention.
Sadly, the film is let down due to a weak script. Despite Alex van Galen’s screenplay attempting to ask deep questions about morality and religion much of the dialogue is laden with grandiose speeches about one’s destiny. Add to that themes of betrayal, loyalty, loss and sacrifice and you’re left with all the classic hallmarks that fans of the genre have seen before.
However, there is no hiding that the films biggest issue is its two hour and forty minute running time. With such a dense story that chronicles the many different battles within Redbad’s life, one might think that this would have been better suited as a mini-series instead. Alternatively, a couple more rewrites and a better editor at the helm could have easily shaved off an hour, making the whole experience much more palatable.
Overall, Redbad is an ambitious project which may have overreached its limitations. Aptly shot on a low budget, its main issue lies with the script. If you’re a fan of the medieval genre and can get past the long running time then you may be able to find some enjoyment. A melodramatic, retelling of a legendary figure, Redbad is a zealous attempt at creating a new action epic.
REDBAD / CERT: 15 / DIRECTOR: ROEL REINE / SCREENPLAY: ALEX VAN GALEN / STARRING: GIJS NABER, JONATHAN BANKS, HUUB STAPEL, TIBO VANDENBORNE / RELEASE: OUT NOW
