Outlaw / King

This stirring historical drama begins with a memorable sequence. In a single, uninterrupted shot, the camera moves from a large tent to a muddy field, where a gigantic catapult launches a fireball at Stirling Castle. During the scene, Robert the Bruce (Chris Pine, boasting a solid accent) and other Scottish nobles are surrendering to King Edward I (Stephen Dillane), the tyrannical ruler of England. Soon, however, Robert starts a new rebellion, hoping to reclaim Scotland. As he tries to raise an army, you feel the desperation of his situation. The film is filled with realistic battles and grisly violence (including a nasty disembowelment scene), and it contains a few moments that are surprisingly funny. The first hour is slightly choppy (perhaps as a result of the cuts made following its premiere at the Toronto film festival), but Outlaw / King remains a rousing experience. Highly recommended, even if you aren't Scottish.