The Kid Who Would Be King (2019) User Reviews

This is more like it!

[jmagruder-194-699202 · 7/10 · 17 August 2019]

Great family flik! Fun take, not too cliche in some points, humor and who doesn't love Patrick Stewart?

Suspend disbelief and simply enjoy.

[rptrezise · 7/10 · 4 May 2019]

Didn't expect much from this but the kids are good, Merlin (both old and young) is a delight and it's actually rather corny fun. If you expected it to be anything else, why are you watching it? Only effect I thought weak was the one for 'MorganaDragon' and the rest are up to par, in the main. Story isn't overlong, unless you can only tolerate cartoons. Neither the best, nor the worst film you'll see. Give it a go. Avoid preconceptions. If you're disappointed, you simply have no soul. Particularly if you can't warm to Bedders immediately.

Nice first half, mediocre second half.

[gwest-58160 · 5/10 · 26 January 2019]

I'd give the first half a high 6, nice. A fun family adventure movie with a couple of funny parts.

But then it lost steam and the second half was generic- a below average 4. I wanted to like the action but it became pretty tedious.

So I guess it's a 5/10. Shame.

Great kid movie...

[arcanjl · 6/10 · 22 July 2019]

I thought this movie was great for the kiddos, and was entertaining enough to watch with them. Probably a pass for the theater, but a fun movie night at home, this is perfect.

A delightful surprise

[Doeh · 7/10 · 26 January 2019]

If I had to start anywhere, it would be the action. The action sequences in this film aren't half bad. If anything there excellent and engaging. Specifically, there's a scene with a horse chase, and it's better than most pursuits we get in action movies nowadays.

There were cheesy jokes that will probably make you cringe, but, there were jokes that landed and the pop culture references are always a plus.

The final act is the best part of this film and has a fantastic final battle with a great message behind it. The film's message is something we can all get behind and relate too, especially in today's political climate.

Regarding negatives, the first two acts of The Kid Who Would Be King is decent at best and might take some people out of the film. As I mentioned earlier, the jokes are good at times but can be very cringy. But that's it. It's an excellent movie for the family and something everybody can enjoy. Maybe if I were younger, I would have given it a higher rating, but the cringy jokes and slow start brought it down for me.

The Kid Who Would Be King gets a 7/10

Fun concept, too cheesy

[cardsrock · 6/10 · 4 February 2019]

I enjoy the idea of a modern retelling of King Arthur, but I wish the film had turned out a little better. There were far too many cringey moments relative to every touching or entertaining moment. Kids movies can be fun and profound without being super cheesy. It's an okay film, but it ends up being kinda forgettable.

A good kids film

[Benslie · 6/10 · 26 January 2019]

First of all, the musical score, which is composed by Christophe Beck and Electric Wave Bureau, was incredible. You could just listen to the score and understand what is going on in the film at that point in time. It helped to understand what was going on in the scenes and what you should feel in that moment. The scenery in this film looked well done and you could tell a lot of detail went into them. At certain times in the film, the CGI and special effects were decent to look at but for a majority of the film, it looked like the special effects department was rushed to get something done. The transitions in this film were awkward and made no sense. At some points, it would feel like the scene had more in it but they had to cut out something to get to a shorter run time. Now, I understand that a majority of the actors are kids and I believe they all can go far in the future is just their acting in this film was really bland. There was very little to no emotion given in any scene from the four main characters. There was only one actor who actually showed emotion and that was Angus Imrie, who plays young Merlin. His character was weird and outgoing and he was probably one of my only favourite things in this film. Although at some parts he probably should have toned his acting down a notch. The villain in this film was just bad and made no sense. I think if they had a longer run time this film could have fixed any of the flaws the had. The last thing I want to mention is how this film relies on certain things to happen and if one of those things didn't happen the entire film wouldn't happen. In the end, this film is a good time for younger kids but not for the whole family.

Basic and way to long!

[muamba_eats_toast · 5/10 · 15 February 2019]

The basic premise of the film is fine and some of the action is ok but the script is beyond basic and the film is atleast half hour to long. Young kids will probably still love it but not much in it for a maturer audience

The Kid Who Would Be King (2018)

[rockman182 · 6/10 · 27 January 2019]

Well January in film has pretty much come and gone and I have to say that I'm surprised that I've enjoyed most of the films that have come out this year thus far. Wasn't really looking forward to this film that was a child friendly rendition of a modern day King Arthur but I gave it a go. Its really dumb at times as expected but is entertaining enough to warrant its own existence. I do hope to not have any more film adaptation of Arthurian legend for a while though.

The film is about a kid named Alexander who one day stumbles on the legendary Excalibur sword. This event unleashes Morgana, an enchantress who is looking to gain access to the sword. To stop her and her soldiers, Alexander enlists the help of an unlikely trio while receiving aid and guidance from the ancient wizard, Merlin. The film stars the son of Andy Serkis and the always gorgeous Rebecca Ferguson (except not when she transforms in this film).

The running length of this film is too long especially for a children's movie. These types of films should clock in at a max of an hour and a half. The effects of the film were pretty decent and the characters were good enough to keep you watching their plight. Its a modern day re-imaging of the successor to the sword and the stone which I find the younger crowd could really enjoy.

There isn't a whole lot of good or bad in this film, it meets its mark in the middle. Its an introduction to Louis Ashbourne Serkis, who I am sure we will see more of in the future. Also, its a chance to see Rebecca Ferguson who really needs to be in more things because she's super great. Overall, don't expect anything more than what the trailers show you but its a perfectly fine film that will go over well with the younger viewers.

6.5/10

This movie is nothing more than cliche story lines and characters.

[gb-79915 · 3/10 · 2 October 2020]

I understand that younger children might find an appeal to this movie but if you are over the age of 14 than this film is nothing more than a bunch of kids trying to do a unrelated task to their normal suburban lives, go and watch The Goonies then, because that film not only paved the path to the bedtime story franchise but it also did the best out of its field.

Just like the dad in this film I wish I was never there, and I wouldn't want to spend any more time with this kid than he did.

Awesome for kids up to 10

[scubax · 9/10 · 15 April 2019]

This movie is surprisingly good for kids the right age. My girls, 7 and 9 loved it.

It's a modern Arthurian tale, so set in the UK with all the adventure movie cliches you might expect which is no bad thing. I'm really surprised by some of the lower-scoring reviews. This movie is formulaic and predictable but it really isn't intended to keep a 44 year old man like me on the edge of his seat.

For it's target audience - kids - it's awesome.

The visual effects were far better than expected for what I thought was a low budget movie (it's $60m) and having Patrick Stewart to bolster the cast as the old Merlin helped too.

There's enough humor and pace along the way stopping it from feeling stuffy and too serious which keeps it light and positive.

Best family movie in ages :)

Utter cringy garbage

[bencoops · 1/10 · 12 March 2019]

So, i went in with the most positive mindset i could possibly have. So when it started i was thinking to myself, it could be good it has 90% on Rotten Tomatoes. As i went through the film, it just got worse and worse. The jokes are just highly cringy (mario kart as an example) the only half decent ones were in the trailer. It is VERY cliched and predictable. It runs for an hour too long and the acting from the children (yes i know there children) is just laughable at times. The way the story plays out just made me sit there in awe. The bit where they go to Cornwall was pointless other than the fact that they learnt how to fight which could have just happened somewhere else. To be honest most of the film is pointless. After the Cornwall part i just tried to fall asleep but i couldn't because it was that loud. The final fight scene is just utterly pathetic. I know it's a kids film but no one dies, gets hurt or even a single scratch on them, it's just not believable. So basically the world was in danger so who do they get to protect the world? The army or the military. No they get a bunch of kids to protect the world. So by the time you've been bored to death for two hours they wrap things up by making everyone happy with all the swords and magic spells etc. I thought that his Dad was going to show up and go, ah i really did love ya i just had to go away, well done on killing that root person thing by the way. I thought they might of had to cut it out because it was on for too long. Thankfully he didn't. Overall the film is just utter garbage. Sadly it's not so bad it's good which i don't mind in a film sometimes but it's not it's just bad. 1/10

Just because we've, essentially, seen it before doesn't mean it isn't good.

[Pjtaylor-96-138044 · 6/10 · 28 February 2019]

Let's be honest, we've all seen 'The Kid Who Would Be King (2019)' before. It's a kid-friendly, modern-day reimagining of an old legend entered around a 'chosen one' narrative and an ensemble of single-trait characters. That doesn't mean that it's without its merits, though. It may occupy a well-worn genre but it occupies it well, comfortably conforming to - and occasionally contorting - the conventions it knows so keenly. It also has a good amount of edge, self-censoring only through its central conceits, and, as such, it feels much closer to the fondly-remembered 'kid' films of yesteryear than most of the stuff being pumped out today (and not just because it's live-action). This actually makes it feel incredibly authentic as each moment seems to serve the story. Whether it's scary, funny, heartfelt or just plain action-packed, the flick always makes a point of staying true to itself, having an excellent understanding of its target audience in the process. Of course, this means that much of the piece is painted in pretty broad strokes. The humour is never really successful and the character-work is all incredibly basic. Still, it's appreciated. By the time the finale rolls around, you'll be invested in the characters and will actively want to see them succeed. Speaking of the finale, it's probably the best part; it's exciting, well-staged and uniquely large-scale. Unfortunately, it's preceded by a pace-killing 'fake-out' that's not only obvious but also just far too long. Without it, I feel the picture would have moved much more smoothly into its final movement and, generally, been all the more successful. It doesn't destroy the experience, though. Overall, the movie is a fun and well-executed entry into a widely-seen genre. It's, essentially, as predictable as it is enjoyable. It's not groundbreaking, nor extremely engaging, but it's entertaining enough to be worth a watch, especially - I suppose - if you aren't as familiar with its framework as I am. 6/10

Never judge a film by its trailer

[iainlewisx · 7/10 · 16 February 2019]

I saw the trailer to this film prior to the disappointment that was Aquaman and it seemed so formulaic - Arthurian legend being overlayed onto British schoolchildren with "whatever" attitudes. However, my son asked me to take him and a friend so I duly obliged, expecting the worst...I was disappointed to be proven wrong. This is a wonderful family film about friendship, honour and strength in unity ( just what this country needs amidst the debacle of Brexit) and I recommend all adults take their children to watch it.

Decent Stories

[syarwanhamid · 7/10 · 11 April 2019]

Opening is good, but after one hours, it decent. I really hope epic battle, but, is not really, is decent. But overall, if i can compare, this story is like Trollhunters: Tales of Arcadia. I think, this movie have potential on animation, who people can really understand about fairy tale. But overall good, even this movie is failed on commercial.

Cute kids movie

[cherold · 6/10 · 14 May 2019]

When I saw a trailer for this film about a kid who in the modern age who pulls a sword from a cement block and finds he has a destiny to save England and the world it struck me as a cute but unexceptional kids flick. Then I saw it was directed by Joe Cornish, who had done the first-rate Attack the Block I figured I'd take a look.

Ultimately, it's exactly the movie the trailer suggested. It's a kids adventure movie reminiscent of a lot of other kids adventure movies. I would have given up early on if not for a very amusing, quirky performance by Angus Imrie.

It's well done but rather predictable. It's got some fun special effects and a big battle finale that's nicely done. The cast is pretty good, with little Louis Ashbourne Serkis surprisingly commanding as the chosen one.

The movie doesn't always make sense. Imrie is a teen Merlin because Merlin ages backwards, yet sometimes he suddenly becomes the old Merlin without ever offering an explanation as to why or how that would even work. The mythology is inconsistent and sloppy and often seems more designed more to make a moral point than because it makes sense in the context of the story.

I did enjoy it more often than not. There are some very solid scenes and I did consider rating this 7 stars. If a decent fantasy aimed at young people sounds appealing to you then check it out.

Did I watch a different film to everyone else??

[markjohnevans79 · 1/10 · 7 April 2019]

How this movie has had so many positive reviews is baffling to me. It is absolutely bloody dreadful. The acting is appalling and the writing is like something from the pen of a talentless first year media studies student. Utter garbage and literally one of the worst films I've ever seen. I know taste is a subjective thing but if you enjoyed this you must be VERY easily impressed!!

A great film for a pre-teenage boy with an active imagination, but passable entertainment for everyone else

[sbweightman · 6/10 · 23 February 2019]

The classic King Arthur story has a modern take with a good number of comical and clever moments, but also a few moments that will make you cringe, and overall, it does go on for too long. The acting quality varies significantly between the small cast of characters, but the special effects are good and the morals it promotes are sensible.

Very poor

[ajhmacleod · 1/10 · 27 December 2019]

Some of the worst acting ever seen, it's more like a middle school production than a professional film. Louis Serkis has obviously inherited his dad's talent as he is the only one to give a convincing performance.

A joyful British Arthurian romp

[TrevorHickman · 9/10 · 21 January 2019]

I didn't know if it were possible to get kids' films like this anymore. It was great fun from start to finish, it's (possibly) about 15 minutes too long (the middle section drags a tiny bit), but it's so enjoyable and there are excellent quips throughout. My kids went away quoting the jokes from the film, and that must be a good sign.

I read another review that director Joe Cornish was a big fan of Time Bandits Terry Gilliam's 1981 fantasy movie. Both have strong leads, slightly oblique plots, together with wizardry and magic

Time Bandits had Sean Connery, The Kid Who Would Be King has Patrick Stewart who puts in a sterling alternating performance (with Angus Imrie) as Merlin.

Louis Ashbourne Serkis is fabulous as Alex the main protagonist. He's got an acting pedigree (both his parents, Andy Serkis and Lorraine Ashbourne) are excellent actors. His Dad is best known for his portrayal of Gollum...fancy having a Dad who was Gollum?!

Anyway, TKWWBK is terrific. As a teenager I loved Excalibur but it's too long (and dark) for my 10 and 11 year olds. This was a perfect antidote. Arthurian Legend and heraldry but without (too much) bloodthirstiness.

Go and see it, it's the best film (whether aimed at children or adults) I've seen for months and months.

Nerd Movie Gold

[natalielassiter · 7/10 · 25 January 2019]

Perfect movie for any nerd who likes adventure and comedy. Great to sit and watch with a slushee and some popcorn. The plot never got slow or boring; I was entertained the entire time. I loved the nerdy references and jokes as well as the political commentary. I wouldn't recommend bringing children under 8 or so, this movie is definitely more targeted towards adults and teens.

Could be better

[willians_franco · 5/10 · 4 August 2019]

Another movie based on the theme "King Arthur and the Round Table". I don't even know how many movies have been made so far based on this theme. The difference from this to the others is that it is intended for children. The main actors are all children. The movie involves magic, fantasy, dragons, special effects, medieval armor, Merlin, a bit of British humor, all set in the present era. Follows that style of movies of the type: "The Goonies" (1985); "Harry Potter" (2001-2011), etc. It even has good special effects. Computer graphics were well done. The bad is the script. I didn't find the story at all interesting, but I think kids might like it. Particularly, I do not recommend it. Choose something better.

Great TV Show Pilot, Okay Movie

[matthewssilverhammer · 6/10 · 1 February 2019]

The Arthurian legends were the YA novels of their day. Full of magic, humanism, drama, and adventure, they carry the epic traits of so many of the modern tales we get wrapped up in. Now those tales have returned, boasting the influences of so many of the stories it helped to birth (Harry Potter, Star Wars): the oafishly wise mentor, the unassuming hero, the otherworldly foes, the good-hearted sidekicks. It's a plot as old as time and as predictable as any old fable, but with strong characters and cool lore, The Kid Who Would Be King manages to be forgettable, childish fun. When young Alex finds and removes a sword from a cinder block, it becomes clear that he may be the descendant of King Arthur himself. Joined by a team of outcast schoolmates, they go on an Amblin-esque quest, including the action ingenuity and lovable loser protagonists of beloved films like Goonies. On the same note, it also includes the obnoxious tendencies of those 80s films that parents squint their eyes at (constant yelling, demonizing of adults). Luckily, director Cornish displays a care rarely seen in modern live-action kids fare, as proved by big themes like modern politics and little details like dirty fingernails. Ultimately though, this is a silly little movie, which isn't a bad thing. The hero's-journey opening and the final battle are a blast, combining the best elements of Home Alone, Hook, and even Lord of the Rings, and its calling card in those moments is its over-the-top-ness. Do I wish it was maybe either more substantive or more overtly juvenile? Sure. But my 6-year-old was fully engrossed throughout, so what do I know?

Overall disappointing.....

[mogfog · 10 July 2019]

Last school year, I was on a school field trip to the mall to watch this movie. Before coming into this movie, I was predicting this movie would be spectacular and entertaining. That was before I went inside the theatres. When I watched the actual movie, it was really disappointing. Some parts were cool, other parts were.......meh........., the CGI in the movie was cool. Most of the characters were boring. But I liked how Patrick Stewart was in the movie. My final opinion is that this movie was really mediocre. Some people may like it, while others won't really like it, but it's just my opinion. Rating is 5/10

OK for a kid's movie

[johnral321 · 7/10 · 28 January 2019]

This movie is entertaining for children. The action is good, graphics, monsters, etc. Movies like this almost need one rating for children (e.g. under 16), and another for adults. I don't think most adults would truly find this enjoyable, but it's tolerable to watch with a kid.