The story has been brought up to date and set in modern times but cleverly succeeds in keeping the old mythology alive. This even includes a very comic take on Merlin the wizard played by two actors, the regal Patrick Stewart playing against type and Angus Imrie, playing him as the school geek extraordinaire. Both versions are very funny.

The believe in yourself message is delivered with little subtlety but it is satisfying nonetheless seeing the school nerd Alex (Louis Ashbourne Serkis) becoming the hero of the day. Watching the transformation of Lance (Tom Taylor) and Kaye (Rhianna Dorris) from class bullies into noble Knights is also enjoyable.

The take away messages are delivered with a heavy handed touch but this can be forgiven because this is a proper big screen, big adventure film and never falls below entertaining. Just a small warning though, some of the imagery, especially that of the big evil Morgana (Rebecca Ferguson) might be a bit too intense for the very young ones.

Rob Hudson
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Alex (Louis Ashbourne Serkis) thinks he’s just another nobody, until he stumbles upon the mythical Sword in the Stone, Excalibur.

Now, he must unite his friends and enemies into a band of knights and, together with the legendary wizard Merlin (Patrick Stewart), take on the wicked enchantress Morgana (Rebecca Ferguson). With the future at stake, Alex must become the great leader he never dreamed he could be.

The Kid Who Would Be King stars LOUIS ASHBOURNE SERKIS, TOM TAYLOR with REBECCA FERGUSON and PATRICK STEWART, and is in Australian Cinemas January 17, 2019!
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