Ignore the reviews giving it a 10 from people obviously involved with the production. Is this movie better than Citizen Kane? Gone With the Wind? Psycho? I think not. In fact, it's not better than the Super 8 movie I shot for a 6th grade project. Those people should be ashamed of themselves, It's an insult to great movies and it's embarrassing that they would give this movie at 10.
20 Reviews
I shot the Sheriff
nogodnomasters14 December 2019
Warning: Spoilers
A group of about a dozen mercenaries are hired by Ardenmor to protect them from the Nosek frost giants and the Samada archers. The Serrian have the south blocked. The entire film takes place in a barn with an occasional arrow coming through the window and lowing their numbers. They bicker, argue, and swear as the talk the plot. The language is very modern military.
It appears like some SCA group got a camera and thought they could make an entire film inside a barn and talk about battle. At this point, you need real good acting and dialogue. They didn't have it. Clark Sarullo had a great costume but can't read a line without a long dramatic pause.
Guide: F-word. No sex or nudity.
It appears like some SCA group got a camera and thought they could make an entire film inside a barn and talk about battle. At this point, you need real good acting and dialogue. They didn't have it. Clark Sarullo had a great costume but can't read a line without a long dramatic pause.
Guide: F-word. No sex or nudity.
Hmmmmmmmm....
HarrySmooth27 March 2021
I'm not entirely sure exactly what I just watched LOL... The entire movie takes place in a dilapidated barn, you never see the actors adversaries who keep attacking the barn, and killing off the members one by one with arrows coming through the windows.
The acting was pretty good, and the set was excellent for an old barn, but I'm just not sure what the plot was supposed to be? They are fighting someone, who we have no idea, what do they look like? Who are they? Where did they come from? It was pretty much like watching a bunch of people inside an old barn, With medieval garb, talking 20th century military lingo! I made it through the whole movie but it was a struggle believe me... Maybe you'll get more out of it than I did... I sure hope so because I didn't come away with a warm fuzzy feeling LOL.
I gave it a 3 simply for the cool Set, acting and Wardrobe.
The acting was pretty good, and the set was excellent for an old barn, but I'm just not sure what the plot was supposed to be? They are fighting someone, who we have no idea, what do they look like? Who are they? Where did they come from? It was pretty much like watching a bunch of people inside an old barn, With medieval garb, talking 20th century military lingo! I made it through the whole movie but it was a struggle believe me... Maybe you'll get more out of it than I did... I sure hope so because I didn't come away with a warm fuzzy feeling LOL.
I gave it a 3 simply for the cool Set, acting and Wardrobe.
Advanced Shelters & Soldiers
voyou-703-6553506 February 2020
Watched despite the obvious partisan commendations, the fake ratings that mechanically keep many of us away from movies.
I stayed until the end, most likely because I dig RPGs. Broken Swords is like a filmed role-playing game session, an episode of a large campaign. We get glimpses of a coherent, well-developed fantasy world as background, with character classes, original magic spells, etc.
The makeups and costumes are great. Easily the highlight of the project.
The acting, very uneven. Some performers are good, others are ridiculous. Natural selection shall do its thing.
The narrative is decidedly "tell, don't show." That weighs heavily; it will lose many a viewer; it will lower the rating.
One thing I personally disliked, from the first seconds, is the characters talking like a contemporary military unit. Even touching their magical objects with today's gestures associated with very specific technologies.
To conclude, this is as close to a radio show as it is to cinema. Watch if you like your fantasy more talkative than visual.
I stayed until the end, most likely because I dig RPGs. Broken Swords is like a filmed role-playing game session, an episode of a large campaign. We get glimpses of a coherent, well-developed fantasy world as background, with character classes, original magic spells, etc.
The makeups and costumes are great. Easily the highlight of the project.
The acting, very uneven. Some performers are good, others are ridiculous. Natural selection shall do its thing.
The narrative is decidedly "tell, don't show." That weighs heavily; it will lose many a viewer; it will lower the rating.
One thing I personally disliked, from the first seconds, is the characters talking like a contemporary military unit. Even touching their magical objects with today's gestures associated with very specific technologies.
To conclude, this is as close to a radio show as it is to cinema. Watch if you like your fantasy more talkative than visual.
All talk and no action
turnerw-2835914 March 2022
I think this movie is going to be one of my picks for one of the worst movies that I've seen this year. This movie can't even get even close to a 6.0 which is very sad at my taste. The whole movie takes place in a barn where all they do is whine and bicker, they got blood and cuts all over themselves but this movie doesn't tell you a doggone thing about how they got bloody in the first place. We only got to see arrows shoot through the walls but other than that, it looks like it's just going to be background noise at this point.
Not great, not even close!
blairandwendy15 February 2020
Broken Swords: A Waste of Time
danmasucci-424-79671515 June 2022
Warning: Spoilers
I don't mind no budget. I do mind no entertainment.
The screenplay is terrible. The poor actors had no chemistry and that is due to the travesty of a a script. We're meant to feel the tension of the characters' plight but we're thrown into their stories after the battles have taken place. The lion's share of the movie is just characters talking to one another- as the actors wrestle to give their wildly under developed characters' personalities.
The characters bicker and threaten one another and use "military" jargon the screenwriter took from watching war flicks and not from experience. The film tries to capture some heartfelt emotional connections a few times but because we have no investment in the characters nor have we seen what they went through, and the dialogue is so poorly written, it falls flat.
The slim amount of action amounts to the occasional arrow through a window.
There isn't even an establishing shot of the location the characters are in. Other than one sad computer animated giant trudging in the distance, we don't see any enemies.
With ten minutes left and the promise by the group's leader that they would battle their way out of the "barn" location, I figured we were due to see some action, but a fade to white followed by the end title dashed those hopes.
Watch if you want to joke with your friends or if you need some background noise while doing something else. My personal recommendation is to give this one a pass altogether.
The screenplay is terrible. The poor actors had no chemistry and that is due to the travesty of a a script. We're meant to feel the tension of the characters' plight but we're thrown into their stories after the battles have taken place. The lion's share of the movie is just characters talking to one another- as the actors wrestle to give their wildly under developed characters' personalities.
The characters bicker and threaten one another and use "military" jargon the screenwriter took from watching war flicks and not from experience. The film tries to capture some heartfelt emotional connections a few times but because we have no investment in the characters nor have we seen what they went through, and the dialogue is so poorly written, it falls flat.
The slim amount of action amounts to the occasional arrow through a window.
There isn't even an establishing shot of the location the characters are in. Other than one sad computer animated giant trudging in the distance, we don't see any enemies.
With ten minutes left and the promise by the group's leader that they would battle their way out of the "barn" location, I figured we were due to see some action, but a fade to white followed by the end title dashed those hopes.
Watch if you want to joke with your friends or if you need some background noise while doing something else. My personal recommendation is to give this one a pass altogether.
Only for larp and d&d people
coachritter9 May 2021
This is basically a film made off of a larp script. I've seen this time and time again at amtgard events, although acting is a bit better than people I fight with at them. You don't actually get to see any action other than people shooting arrows out a window, most of which weren't even half draws, so arrows wouldn't actually damage anything. Wish they had actual people to fight, or at least tried to get into the barn. Having even one actual fight scene would have made it better instead of imagining opponents for each wave.
This could have been a stage play when you consider the fact that there is absolutey no action ....
manoloblahnik17 November 2021
...and that it all takes place entirely in small rooms. Unfortunately the stilted dialogue is so bad, that it wouldn't really work either on stage. It doesn't help that the actors of various "abilities" spend the majority of their screen time alternately insulting, then threatening one another while dressed in medieval type costumes but speaking like it's present day. All are covered in dried blood and have various cuts and bruises, yet we never actually see any of them engaged in battle. They spend the rest of their time looking out the windows of their refuge, describing action that's supposed to be happening outside ...... action that we never get to see.
Maybe the director wanted to make an action fantasy film, but the screenwriter wrote a modern day military thriller, apparently the only thing they agreed on was that the audience wouldn't see a single frame of action.
Maybe the director wanted to make an action fantasy film, but the screenwriter wrote a modern day military thriller, apparently the only thing they agreed on was that the audience wouldn't see a single frame of action.
This whole film is Broken...
jprice-382532 October 2023
Warning: Spoilers
So...I only came to watch this movie, because of an actress in this I personally know and I worked with in a past feature film back in 2014. Kellie Carroll, it's Jax aka Sam Sunflower from The Town Inside, if you happen to be reading this at all, you did a great job! I'm also proud of your acting journey and how far you have come along since!
Anyways, on to my review of this. Ooo Yikes. As someone that loves Medieval or Medieval Fantasy films, this definitely could've had some potential. I enjoyed the costumes, the special effects were very well done and the indoor setting. But in something like this, that's all you can really enjoy here.
I can't necessarily blame the cast. They were just given on what they were supposed to work with, but for what they were given was absolutely terrible. Their dialogue was all too modern, so it's hard to even make you believe or feel like they were back in the Middle Ages.
No story at all. No strong character development to even care or root for anyone. We couldn't see what or who they were fighting against. What was their plan? How long have they been fighting? How long have they been traveling? Where exactly are they trying to get to and why? What is their main purpose in this? Why are they having to stay in this shelter? Which by the way I end up finding out that this whole entire movie takes place IN the shelter. No other indoor or outside locations. I hate to say, but unfortunately I had to fast forward through this, because I was just so bored to death and the time was definitely dragging.
No action either. If you're gonna make any kind of Medieval or Medieval Fantasy that is, there HAS to be at least SOME action involving sword fighting or something. There was only like 3 minutes of archery in this movie. That's about the only action you are going to see. Plus we would have to be shown what or who they are fighting.
I'm not sure if this was filmed in a big studio or a place somewhere on location, but geez, I would've thought they could've at least gone outside somewhere to film a scene or two. Tight budget? All they could work with? Couldn't find the locations they were looking for? Permit problems? Who knows. But I think that kind of effort needed to be put in more before actually finalizing the script. Therefore, you could tell it was rushed.
If you don't know anyone in this or don't know anyone personally, then I highly recommend to please pass on this...
Anyways, on to my review of this. Ooo Yikes. As someone that loves Medieval or Medieval Fantasy films, this definitely could've had some potential. I enjoyed the costumes, the special effects were very well done and the indoor setting. But in something like this, that's all you can really enjoy here.
I can't necessarily blame the cast. They were just given on what they were supposed to work with, but for what they were given was absolutely terrible. Their dialogue was all too modern, so it's hard to even make you believe or feel like they were back in the Middle Ages.
No story at all. No strong character development to even care or root for anyone. We couldn't see what or who they were fighting against. What was their plan? How long have they been fighting? How long have they been traveling? Where exactly are they trying to get to and why? What is their main purpose in this? Why are they having to stay in this shelter? Which by the way I end up finding out that this whole entire movie takes place IN the shelter. No other indoor or outside locations. I hate to say, but unfortunately I had to fast forward through this, because I was just so bored to death and the time was definitely dragging.
No action either. If you're gonna make any kind of Medieval or Medieval Fantasy that is, there HAS to be at least SOME action involving sword fighting or something. There was only like 3 minutes of archery in this movie. That's about the only action you are going to see. Plus we would have to be shown what or who they are fighting.
I'm not sure if this was filmed in a big studio or a place somewhere on location, but geez, I would've thought they could've at least gone outside somewhere to film a scene or two. Tight budget? All they could work with? Couldn't find the locations they were looking for? Permit problems? Who knows. But I think that kind of effort needed to be put in more before actually finalizing the script. Therefore, you could tell it was rushed.
If you don't know anyone in this or don't know anyone personally, then I highly recommend to please pass on this...
Indie film with some punch
fchase-199122 December 2019
Atmospheric. Simple story. Great characterization. For an indie film fantastic production values (costumes, sets, props, make up were all amazing). slow burn story, not an action film, character studies. Actors across the board were just great, with a lot of laughs, hard stuff, tension and grit. The world created was also compelling and while it would've been nice to see more of the outside and more of the world described it might have to wait for a sequel to do that with more of a budget. Well done.
Since it is non-rated some key things: language is rough and at times crude, like soldiers. One sex scene. No nudity. The violence is more PG.
Since it is non-rated some key things: language is rough and at times crude, like soldiers. One sex scene. No nudity. The violence is more PG.
Unique, engaging and entertaining.
Vehicular-Mans-Laughter28 December 2019
First of all, let me say that my wife and I regularly watch as many new movies as possible.
This was among 6 other NEW RELEASE films that my wife picked up from either Walmart or possibly another retailer.
We were both pleasantly impressed and enjoyed the story. This movie seems to be akin to a Game of Thrones or Lord of The Rings only much smaller scale and internal world.
Seems to be independent as there are no name actors but it goes to show you there are
hidden gems out there that more people should see.
Broken Swords: The Last in EVERYTHING
jamestimmons3522 April 2021
I like low budget independent movies particularly when they have at least one of the following components: good acting, decent special effects, clear storyline, effective plot/character development, or any coherent purpose of any kind. This has zero of those components and spurred me to reset my never used password to warn you that if you spend 98 minutes of your life watching this "movie" you will be left angry, confused, and disappointed. Disappointed like every father of everyone associated with the production of this atrocity. Seriously , it is that bad. I could go into detail on everything wrong with it but it's just a waste of more time. Do not watch this unless you harbor a deep, dark, massive amount of self hatred.
Breakout Director?
TheMagicalOboe29 December 2019
I haven't seen him before so I'm guessing this is his debut feature.
Director is Michael Babbitt.
I tip my hat to him. He did a good job. I see this director continuing to do well should he get with the right studio.
Omg beautiful set design.
1Professor2many9 January 2020
There are a few positives in this movie and it's definitely different than what I have seen in the past and that's good!
One thing that stands out in particular is the set design.
It's simply gorgeous-yet very UNsimple!
Don't know how how much of the budget went into it's design and construction but I'd wager a guess that the production designer made a killing and lined their pockets quite well.
Would be curious to scour the extras section and hear from cast/crew what inside jokes or commentary they had on what each item or magical trinket that was hidden among the set's complexity.
Don't know how how much of the budget went into it's design and construction but I'd wager a guess that the production designer made a killing and lined their pockets quite well.
Would be curious to scour the extras section and hear from cast/crew what inside jokes or commentary they had on what each item or magical trinket that was hidden among the set's complexity.
Irresponsibility at its peak
ksmallslive14 September 2020
SUPER FUNNY
ThefourteenthZodiak13 January 2020
Despite being dark and bloody this script is really funny! It brings a humble humanity to each character and allows you to care about everyone involved in their adventure.
Many characters stand out like Judge and the main captain dude. But 2 of my favorites are the nobleman/prince guy and the assassin woman with the creepy neck scar and weird distorted voice. They are both bunk mates and it makes sense that they are also lovers. Lo and behold, they also have a sex scene. No surprise. I'd ship them too.
They bicker like an old couple as well.
Perfect match imho
WTH?
eyazzatl22 May 2021
I found the actors very interesting. I felt like I was eavesdropping. I felt the strength and determination of these mercenaries, and I hated when one of them was killed. I did think, if the archers really let an arrow fly more than a foot or two, maybe they did have a chance to survive the night. This offering was mesmerizing enough that I must watch it again, and get it! This movie was a brave attempt. I scratched my head, but I see something here of subtle greatness. Good job!
This Is A Weird One
jamaisj-838-9373224 April 2021
The set-up is pretty simple: A group of soliders has decided to take shelter in a house and is preparing for a suicide run. The neat part is that they have access to D&D-style magic.
For those expecting wall-to-wall action, this is not the movie for you. This basically how a group of soldiers with a little extra magic would act: They would bind their wounds, defend their shelter, and prepare for the next battle.
In that regard it's a great movie. There are some really fun parts, there's some decent storytelling, and it's interesting to watch.
For those expecting wall-to-wall action, this is not the movie for you. This basically how a group of soldiers with a little extra magic would act: They would bind their wounds, defend their shelter, and prepare for the next battle.
In that regard it's a great movie. There are some really fun parts, there's some decent storytelling, and it's interesting to watch.
Intriguing, Inviting, Invigorating
bemyfriend-4018424 April 2022
I'm sure most of the reviewers who gave this a low rating did so because it is only PART of a story. There is no introduction, beginning, transition, and ending. And yeah, there was no real action. But the intention of this partial movie, was to introduce you to an idea; and a working model to achieve the idea. The movie-makers were great; as were the actors! Seen on Tubi, the free streaming site, which also has live TV.
See also
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