Knight Life – Movie Review
First Reaction – Knight Life proves you can enjoy any niche with the right people around you.
Where to Watch
(VOD Release 1/28/25)
Director: Matt Poitras
Plot: Meet the diverse group of dedicated men and women who bring the Middle Ages to the present day, training for years to perfect their skills. They become expert horseback riders and caretakers, learn to full-contact joust in full armor [vs choreographed stunts], and perfect intricate swordplay to thrill audiences day after day. They endure bruises, broken bones, and heartbreaking losses all in pursuit of being crowned the champion of the Knight Life and keeping this art form and sport alive.
Runtime: 1 Hour 28 Minutes
There may be spoilers in the rest of the review
Verdict on Knight Life
Recap
The movie follows the lives of a modern-day middle-aged reenactment crew. It follows their event procedures and how they have turned the show into a modern-day form of light entertainment. Yes, they can get hurt, but it is more about the stunt of the performance than actually hurting each other. It also explores the therapy it has offered to people, including soldiers with PTSD, and how it helps them cope with their problems.
Best Parts
We get a documentary following a niche group who have come together to provide entertainment. It gives them a chance to enjoy something they never imagined and deal with personal problems. This shows us how you could find a place in a group you never expected. One of the nicest parts of the documentary is how natural the people are, they all feel like everyday people. The most important part of this documentary shows the dangers involved, but the desire to compete and enjoy their time comes through.
Final Thoughts –Knight Life is a fascinating documentary into a niche.
