Many people have forgotten all about Ridley Scott’s little-known medieval film that has been likened with the greatness of the Gladiator.
Ridley Scott’s The Last Duel takes the grandeur, betrayal and force of the 14th century and serves it on a cinematographically brilliant platter, even if the subject matter itself may be, to put it bluntly, nauseating.
Based on a true story, The Last Duel is centered around the last trial-by-combat in medieval France with the movie following blueblooded individuals who are obsessed with their own nobility, courtly relationships, and bravery in a society that places a great deal of emphasis on reputation. The film is based on Eric Jager’s bestselling book The Last Duel: A True Story of Trial By Combat in Medieval France.
Focused on the premise of rape-revenge–where outlandishly enough the rapists are the one that get to do the revenging–The Last Duel released in the era post Hollywood’s MeToo movement after the painstaking efforts of survivors, in what was considered to be bizarre timing.
Co-written by Ben Affleck, Matt Damon and Nicole Holofcener – this war epic has been directed by master storyteller Ridley Scott and made its premiere at the Venice International Film Festival in September 2021, where it wasn’t received too warmly by critics, who were presumably uncomfortable with the movie’s theme being explored by alpha male Hollywood megastars.
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Audience reviews of the film shared similar sentiments with one viewer stating: “I would give it zero stars if I could. Graphic r*pe scenes are completely unnecessary. Save yourself the mental anguish and don’t watch this film,” while yet another expressed their displeasure and commented: “I was looking forward to see Matt and Ben in a dramatic movie they wrote. It was extremely disappointing.
“I literally rewatched it twice because I assumed there was something I was missing. I understand they were trying for a Me Too, but back in time, with death at stake . But, it was as awful. 1st of no interest in seeing this actress get raped multiple times, 2nd their versions weren’t different enough to repeat.”
Even then, it is considered to be some of Ridley’s strongest work, with critics labelling it a “vicious historical drama with one of his greatest casts”.
A Redditor was left thoroughly impressed with Ridley Scott’s cinematic offering and shared: “The Last Duel (2021) was really really good. I had little to no expectations from the film, was blown away by the stunning cinematography, story and acting. How has this not been nominated for the Oscars? Jodie Comer’s acting was outclass adding to the pain and betrayal must’ve been through. Was pleasantly surprised by Ben Affleck’s performance and the last action sequence is just phenomenal. I would suggest you check it out yourself cuz it’s something else.”
Another reviewer lauded the acting prowess of the three leads, commenting: “The three leads (Damon, Driver, and Comer) really were fantastic throughout. I loved the subtle differences in events from each of their perspectives.”
A Rotten Tomatoes audience review of the film stated: “Medieval-themed films can be so captivating with their rich history and intricate storytelling. It’s wonderful to find a film that does justice to that era. The attention to detail in costumes, settings, and dialogue can really transport viewers back in time. It’s always a treat to find a movie that immerses you in a different world. This film really hit the mark in terms of authenticity and storytelling.”
However some viewers were not as impressed, with one commenting: “I was expecting a war movie with knightly dialogues and an interesting plot. Instead the movie is basically a story about “toxic masculinity” I suppose. The dialogue was there but the plot became less interesting after I got what it was. Good setting and acting but that’s it.”
Another reviewer felt that the story was “boring” and said: “They tell the same boring story 3 times in a row… The duel at the end is awesome though. This movie would be much better if it were 30 minutes. Just give a quick background of the issue at hand and head straight to the amazing duel, that would get 5 stars.”