The 2019 film The Kid Who Would Be King, Joe Cornish’s take on a modern King Arthur story, is a fantastic and entertaining adventure for families. Set in Britain but with plenty of Irish influence, this movie about kids and legends really stands out for Irish viewers. Let’s dive into what makes it special, its Irish roots, and why it has such appeal.
What’s The Kid Who Would Be King All About?
The story revolves around Alex (Louis Ashbourne Serkis), a 12-year-old in London who feels overlooked and like the underdog. His life changes dramatically when he accidentally pulls the mythical sword Excalibur from a concrete foundation, revealing that he is descended from King Arthur. Now, he must assemble a team of friends, including his loyal sidekick Bedders and former bullies Lance and Kaye, to face down the wicked sorceress Morgana (Rebecca Ferguson) and her ancient, animated army.
With a wonderfully quirky Merlin (played by both a young Angus Imrie and a wise Patrick Stewart) as his mentor, Alex embarks on a mission that’s equal parts humor, heart, and action, reminiscent of classic 80s kid flicks.
Irish Links in The Kid Who Would Be King
While the setting is British, The Kid Who Would Be King is sprinkled with charming Irish connections that resonate deeply with the Irish audience:
Denise Gough: Bringing the Irish Talent to Alex’s Mum
One of Ireland’s brightest stars, Denise Gough, plays Alex’s dedicated single mother with incredible depth and realism. You’ll recognize Gough from her acclaimed roles in theater and TV (including Game of Thrones prequel work and The Fall). Her warm, human portrayal of Alex’s mum anchors the family’s emotional core, giving the film a noticeable Irish feel.
Deep Roots in Celtic Mythology and Irish folklore
Arthurian tales are actually closely tied to Celtic mythology. Elements of the King Arthur legends – the quest for a sword, wizards and their spells, heroes and their mythical deeds – echo much of Ireland’s own rich tradition of storytelling and folklore. The film’s theme of ordinary children overcoming extraordinary odds feels right at home in Ireland, a land steeped in tales of myth and legend passed down through generations. Both The Irish Times and RTE praised the movie’s ability to capture this spirit for a modern family audience.
Who’s In The Kid Who Would Be King?
* Louis Ashbourne Serkis as Alex
* Dean Chaumoo as Bedders
* Tom Taylor and Rhianna Doris as Lance and Kaye
* Rebecca Ferguson as the villainous Morgana
* Patrick Stewart as the elder Merlin
* Denise Gough (Ireland) as Alex’s Mum
The young cast is a joy to watch, and the established stars provide the perfect mix of gravitas and comedic timing.
Reception, Box Office, and a Streaming Comeback
When it first hit cinemas, The Kid Who Would Be King received a lot of love from critics for its hopeful message and inventive take on the familiar Arthur story. While it didn’t perform spectacularly at the box office (taking in about $32 million against its $59 million budget), the movie has found a new and appreciative audience on streaming platforms in recent years, becoming a go-to for families looking for something uplifting and adventurous.
Audiences and reviewers alike continue to celebrate the film’s themes of unity, bravery, and the power of turning your enemies into allies – themes that are especially relevant today.
Why Irish Audiences Love The Kid Who Would Be King
Beyond the significant contribution of Irish star Denise Gough, the film taps directly into Ireland’s love for myth and legend, as well as its admiration for underdog stories. The perfect blend of humor and heart is something many Irish films and stories excel at. The Kid Who Would Be King is an excellent alternative for families looking for fantasy that doesn’t lean towards darker or more cynical tones.
If you’re drawn to the magic of the Arthurian legends, appreciate excellent Irish talent like Denise Gough, or simply want a well-made and positive family movie, this is definitely one to check out. Grab the remote, and get ready to be transported to Camelot in the 21st century!
Also recommended for fans of The Chronicles of Narnia and Percy Jackson series. Available on major streaming services.
Final Thoughts
The Kid Who Would Be King is a modern classic that demonstrates the timeless appeal of King Arthur’s tale. With its engaging storyline, strong cast, and, importantly, Irish connections through its talent and Celtic roots, the movie is a delightful watch for the whole family.
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