Knightfall is a historical drama television series that aired on the History Channel from 2017 to 2019. The show dramatises the final years of the Knights Templar, blending real historical events with fictional intrigue, religious conflict, and brutal medieval combat. Aimed at fans of Game of Thrones and Vikings, the series delivers sword-swinging action while exploring themes of faith, betrayal, and political machinations.
Historical Inspiration & Accuracy
The series draws loosely from the suppression of the Templars in the early 14th century, incorporating key events:
| Historical Event | Depiction in Knightfall |
|---|---|
| Fall of Acre (1291) | Opening scene; sets up Landry’s crisis of faith |
| Persecution of the Templars (1307) | Central conflict in Season 2 |
| Holy Grail mythology | Fictionalised as a driving plot device |
Criticism: While the show captures the broader historical context, it takes significant liberties with timelines and characterisations. Some historians argue that the portrayal of King Philip IV and Pope Clement V oversimplifies their motives, reducing complex political manoeuvres to melodramatic villainy.
Production & Style
- Developed by: Don Handfield & Richard Rayner
- Filming Locations: Croatia & Czech Republic (providing authentic medieval backdrops)
- Seasons: 2 (18 episodes total)
- Tone: Gritty, with a mix of political intrigue and brutal combat
Strengths:
✔ Impressive production design, costumes, armour, and sets reflect medieval authenticity.
✔ Battle scenes are well-choreographed, emphasising weighty, realistic swordplay.
Weaknesses:
✖ Pacing issues, some subplots drag, particularly in Season 1.
✖ Dialogue occasionally veers into cliché, especially in romantic scenes.
Plot Summary
Season 1
- Follows Landry de Lauzon, a disillusioned Templar haunted by the loss of Acre.
- The Holy Grail resurfaces, drawing Landry into a web of royal conspiracy and forbidden love (with Queen Joan of France).
- Themes: Faith vs. doubt, brotherhood, and corruption in the Church.
Season 2
- Focuses on the Templars’ downfall, with King Philip IV emerging as the main antagonist.
- Introduces Mark Hamill as Talus, a battle-hardened Templar mentor, a standout performance.
- Culminates in a tense, action-packed finale mirroring the historical mass arrests of 1307.
Cast & Performances
| Actor | Role | Notable Traits |
|---|---|---|
| Tom Cullen | Landry de Lauzon | Charismatic but occasionally wooden |
| Mark Hamill | Talus | Season 2 highlight, gruff, authoritative |
| Ed Stoppard | King Philip IV | Effectively ruthless, though one-dimensional |
| Olivia Ross | Queen Joan | Strong presence, but underutilised |
Criticism: While Hamill’s Talus is a fan favourite, Landry’s character is often criticised for inconsistent motivations, torn between piety, love, and vengeance in ways that sometimes feel forced.
Combat & Weaponry
The fight choreography emphasises medieval realism over flashy theatrics.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Swordplay | Heavy, deliberate strikes; shield-and-sword combos |
| Training Scenes | Talus’ brutal drills are a standout |
| Weapons Used | Arming swords, daggers, polearms (historically plausible) |
Criticism: Some battles feel repetitive, lacking the tactical depth seen in shows like The Last Kingdom.
Reception & Legacy
- Rotten Tomatoes: ~70% audience score
- IGN: 7/10 – “Solid action, but uneven storytelling.”
- Fan Base: Found a cult following among medieval combat enthusiasts.
Why It Was Cancelled:
- Declining viewership after Season 1.
- Competition from bigger-budget historical dramas.
Where to Watch
Currently available on:
- Netflix (most regions)
- Amazon Prime Video (rent/purchase)
- Apple TV / Google Play (digital purchase)
Final Verdict
Knightfall is a flawed but entertaining dive into Templar lore. While it stumbles with historical accuracy and pacing, its strong production values, Mark Hamill’s performance, and brutal combat make it worth watching for fans of medieval drama.
For: Fans of sword fights, secret orders, and political intrigue.
Not For: Those seeking rigorous historical fidelity or deep character development.
Would it have improved with a third season? Probably, but as it stands, Knightfall remains a solid, if uneven, entry in the genre.
Watch the trailer:
