The Outlaw King, directed by David Mackenzie, is a historical drama that follows Robert the Bruce in the early years of the Scottish Wars of Independence. Released in 2018 by Netflix, the film sets out to present a more grounded portrait of Scotland’s path to freedom, distinct from the stylised liberties taken by earlier films such asBraveheart. It focuses on the raw consequences of rebellion and the weight of leadership in a fractured land.
Production
Filming took place across Scotland, capturing the country’s landscapes with a sense of natural beauty and hardship. The production team paid close attention to historical detail, from the rough timber halls to the chainmail and weather-beaten cloaks. David Mackenzie’s direction often places the camera close to the characters, particularly during action scenes, creating a sense of claustrophobia and intensity. After its premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, the original cut was trimmed by around twenty minutes, making the pacing tighter without losing coherence.
Cast
Chris Pine plays Robert the Bruce with quiet conviction, offering a measured performance rather than grand declarations. Florence Pugh brings presence to Elizabeth de Burgh, though her role is limited by the script. Billy Howle portrays Edward, Prince of Wales, with a frenetic and cruel energy that sometimes veers towards theatrical. Aaron Taylor-Johnson’s depiction of James Douglas is one of the film’s more memorable elements, presenting him as a fanatical and relentless ally driven by personal loss and loyalty.
Plot Summary and Historical Context
The story begins shortly after the defeat of William Wallace. Robert the Bruce, having submitted to Edward I, soon turns against the English crown. After killing his rival John Comyn, he declares himself King of Scots and begins a campaign of resistance. The narrative follows Bruce through initial defeats, the imprisonment of his family, and finally to the Battle of Loudoun Hill in 1307.
While the film compresses timelines and simplifies political tensions, it broadly follows the historical record. It ends well before Bruce’s ultimate victory at Bannockburn, focusing instead on his emergence as a serious contender for Scottish independence rather than his long-term achievements as king.
Combat and Choreography
The combat is visceral, chaotic, and deliberately unrefined. The camera often remains tight on the action, avoiding sweeping battlefield shots in favour of close-quarters brutality. Armour is dented, swords are heavy, and bodies struggle through mud. The Battle of Loudoun Hill is staged with attention to terrain and historical tactics, showing how Bruce used the landscape to neutralise the English cavalry.
Swords in Detail
Weapons are not romanticised. Bruce wields a hand-and-a-half sword suited to both horseback and foot combat. James Douglas carries a broader, cleaver-like sword that mirrors his aggressive style. The armour and blades are historically plausible, avoiding fantasy embellishments. Edges are worn and utilitarian, suited to war rather than ceremony. The film also refrains from elaborate duels, opting for more grounded fighting consistent with what might be expected in 14th-century engagements.
Memorable Quotes
Some lines stand out for their directness:
- “I have not yet begun to fight for my country.” – Robert the Bruce
- “You are a king because you are feared. You are feared because you are ruthless.” – Edward I
- “I will not be controlled. I will not be defeated.” – James Douglas
These are not grand speeches, but they reflect the personalities involved and the starkness of the conflict.
Critical Reception
The film received a mixed but generally positive response. Many praised its visual authenticity, understated lead performance, and effort to remain closer to historical truth than its cinematic predecessors. Some critics, however, felt it lacked emotional depth in places and could have spent more time on character development outside the battlefield. The decision to trim the film following its festival screening improved the pacing, but also removed some character-building scenes.
Legacy
While not as widely discussed as Braveheart, Outlaw King has gained a reputation for its restraint and attention to historical setting. It contributed to renewed interest in Robert the Bruce as a figure of substance rather than myth. The film also helped raise the profile of historic locations such as Craigmillar Castle, Mugdock, and Glen Coe, which were used during production.
Where to Watch
Outlaw King is available to stream on Netflix and occasionally features in historical film retrospectives or festivals. The platform remains the primary way to view the film in most regions.
Watch the trailer:
