Action,Drama,Adventure
United States of America
Knightriders is a 1981 American drama film written and directed by George A. Romero. The film stars Ed Harris as King William, the leader of a traveling Renaissance fair troupe that performs jousting events while living according to a medieval code of ethics. The film follows the struggles of the group to maintain their lifestyle and ideals in the face of financial pressures and personal conflicts.
King William and his followers are a close-knit group who live and work together in a mobile encampment. They stage jousting tournaments, complete with armor, horses, and lances, that are open to the public for a fee. Their performances draw crowds, but they struggle to make enough money to pay their bills and maintain their equipment.
Complicating matters is the arrival of an unscrupulous promoter named Bontemps (played by Martin Ferrero). He sees the potential profitability of the troupe's act and tries to convince King William to sell out to him. Meanwhile, tensions build within the group as members struggle to reconcile their medieval ideals with the modern world.
Knightriders is an unusual film that blends elements of medieval romance, contemporary drama, and action adventure. It explores the themes of loyalty, honor, and sacrifice at a time when these values seem out of step with the prevailing culture. The film also features a notable cast, including Patricia Tallman, Tom Savini, and Christine Forrest, who play various members of the troupe. With its blend of spectacle and character development, Knightriders is a compelling and unique entry in the canon of George Romero's films.
