Subscribers to Netflix in the United Kingdom have a powerful new addition to their watchlists, as the critically praised historical epic Outlaw King has arrived on the platform. The 2018 film, which dramatises a crucial chapter in Scotland's Wars of Independence, features a star-studded cast led by Chris Pine and has been lauded for its compelling performances and visceral action.
A Cinematic Portrait of Robert the Bruce
Directed by David Mackenzie, who also co-wrote and produced the feature, Outlaw King focuses on the years 1304 to 1307. It charts the journey of Robert the Bruce, portrayed by Chris Pine, after his coronation as King of Scots. Forced into exile by the occupying English forces, Bruce transforms into an outlaw leader, marshalling a guerrilla campaign to reclaim his throne and his nation's freedom. The narrative is framed as a classic underdog story, pitting Bruce's cunning and resolve against the far superior numbers and resources of the English army.
The supporting cast is a formidable ensemble, including Florence Pugh, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Tony Curran, and Stephen Dillane. Their performances have been widely celebrated for adding depth and authenticity to the sprawling period piece.
Pine's Dedication to the Role
In preparing for the demanding lead role, Chris Pine undertook the significant challenge of mastering a Scottish accent. The actor openly discussed the difficulties with Entertainment Weekly, noting the particular sounds and the overall 'musicality' of the dialect that proved tricky. "It was difficult to get an accent to be organic that is so foreign from my own," Pine confessed. His primary goal was to ensure the accent served the story without becoming a distraction, aiming for a portrayal that audiences would find believable and immersive.
Critical and Audience Acclaim
The film has secured a solid 69% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, with viewers and critics alike praising its execution. Reviews frequently highlight the film's technical prowess, including its stunning cinematography and meticulously designed production, which brings the 14th-century landscape to life.
Audience reactions collected online reflect a strong positive reception. One fan described it as a "great movie all around" with "fantastic period piece" elements, "solid acting", and "realistic fight scenes". Another viewer was impressed by the detail, praising not just the principal cast but also the "unbelievable" work of the extras in the large-scale battle sequences, calling them some of the best seen on film.
Professional critiques have echoed this sentiment. One review commended the film's ability to elevate familiar historical material through "great lead performances" and superior production design. Chris Pine's performance, in particular, has been singled out for capturing the complexity of Robert the Bruce—his conviction, bravery, and compassion. As one critic summarised, "Outlaw King is a gripping, moving and grand film full of spellbinding performances."
For fans of historical drama seeking a visceral and emotionally charged story of resilience and national identity, Outlaw King represents a standout option now readily available for streaming on Netflix UK.
