The Legend of Redbad (2019) | Trailer | Gijs Naber | Jonathan Banks | Søren Malling

 Redbad 

Genre: Historical Epic, Action, Drama
Director: Roel Reiné
Starring: Gijs Naber, Jonathan Banks, Søren Malling, Loes Haverkort, Derek de Lint
Runtime: 160 minutes
Language: Dutch, Frisian, English

Introduction

The Legend of Redbad (original title: Redbad) is a 2018–2019 Dutch historical action epic directed by Roel Reiné, known for his visually grand filmmaking and sweeping historical set pieces. The film revisits the life and legend of Redbad, a 7th-century Frisian king who became a symbol of resistance against Christianization and foreign domination in early medieval Europe.

The trailer offers a glimpse into the brutal and mythic world of the early Middle Ages — filled with sword fights, massive armies, treachery, and the eternal struggle between paganism and Christianity.

Summary

Set in the early 700s AD, the story follows Redbad (Gijs Naber), the son of King Aldgisl, who rules over the Frisian tribes in what is now the Netherlands and northern Germany. When his father is betrayed and killed, Redbad is exiled and left for dead by the rising Christian Franks, led by Pepin of Herstal and Charles Martel.

In exile, Redbad finds refuge among the Vikings, where he learns new ways of warfare and leadership. Eventually, he returns home to reclaim his throne and lead a rebellion against the Christian Franks — determined to preserve the freedom, gods, and traditions of his people.

The film explores Redbad’s internal struggle between vengeance and destiny, and his realization that his war is not only for his people but for the soul of Europe itself.

Reception

Upon release, The Legend of Redbad received mixed to positive reviews. Critics praised its ambition and visuals, though some felt the pacing and dialogue could have been tighter. Despite this, it has gained a following among fans of historical epics and Norse-inspired cinema — often compared to Vikings and The Last Kingdom.

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🩸 Final Thoughts

If you’re a fan of epic historical dramas filled with action, mythology, and political intrigue, The Legend of Redbad deserves a place on your watchlist. The trailer alone promises a cinematic experience that blends history with legend — the story of a man who stood against an empire for his people’s freedom.