8/10
A German comedy that is actually funny even through subtitles
18 October 2019
I was incredibly surprised that I enjoyed this film, but I found it to be one of the best 'Friday Night' comedies I have seen for a long time. Even though the film is subtitled and scripted in German (never my first port of call for issues of comedy) I laughed out loud (genuinely, not the trite LOL of social media) at several points. It is an historical romp that sensitively touches on several issues and has several modern day references that could ruin a film, but actually fit in. I loved the idea of a psychiatrist analysing the German equivalent of Robin Hood and concluding 'You've got a problem!' and I thought the idea of fans of a boy band throwing their chastity belts at the singers instead of their underwear an amusing sideline. The sensitive addressing of certain issues puts this film ahead of the crass denials of The Holy Grail and other similar comedies. I also loved the idea of inviting a sympathetic gaoler - and his daughters - to your own wedding a pleasant touch. This film has touches of the Holy Grail, Robin Hood Prince of Thieves, The Man of La Mancha, Les Visiteurs, The Blackadder, Time Bandits and Jabberwocky all mixed together but given an unique feel - all in German with sub titles. I also found the slightly unusual musical score refreshingly good - I would like to know if a recording of just the score is available. The Knight of the title is a Superstar Knight who falls from favour - and is imprisoned - because he failed to protect the Princess he was meant to be guarding, but he is then given a chance to redeem himself by searching for the kidnapped princess, whom he adores. The Half-a-Knight from the title is a Christian Moorish con-man (what a concept!) whose very existence touches upon many modern issues, and whose role is sensitively played. I suspect the negative reviews are from viewers who could not see beyond the mixing of modern with medieval (there was a decision to add a New Kids on the Block concert that makes little sense apart from the comic issues that arise therefrom). Perhaps those reviewers should remember that this is a comic romp and is not intended to be historically accurate! In fact there are some interesting performances here (albeit no great acting moments), sensitive treatment of certain issues and the occasional genuine laugh-out-loud moment of real comedy. I will definitely watch this film again (and again)
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