From epic quests and holy wars to plague-stricken abbeys and werewolf-infested woods, the medieval period is enjoying a full-blown renaissance in cinema. As sword-and-armour tales surge back into the cultural spotlight, Hollywood is doubling down on projects set in the age of knights, monks, and rebellions. Here’s a look at the most anticipated upcoming medieval films in development or preparing to shoot.
The Peasant
Directed by Dev Patel – Hot off the success of Monkey Man, Dev Patel takes a darker, grittier turn in The Peasant, a medieval action thriller set in 14th-century feudal India. Patel plays a low-born shepherd seeking vengeance after mercenaries raze his village. The film promises brutal swordplay and a grounded aesthetic, with A24 backing the project. Production is expected to begin later in 2025.
Rapture
Directed by Jordan Tannahill – A chilling blend of horror and historical drama, Rapture takes place in 1348 Yorkshire, as the Black Death spreads across Europe. But in this version of history, the dead do not stay dead. Monks in a secluded monastery begin to suspect plague victims are rising again. Starring Will Poulter and Kit Connor, the film will shoot in Hungary with a projected 2026 release.
The Rage
Directed by Paul Greengrass – Set amid the chaos of England’s 1381 Peasants’ Revolt, The Rage (formerly The Hood) tackles class warfare, political rebellion, and grassroots heroism. Andrew Garfield is reportedly circling the lead role, with director Paul Greengrass (United 93, Captain Phillips) promising a raw and radical reimagining of the uprising. Production is said to begin soon.
Werwulf
Directed by Robert Eggers – Known for his painstaking historical accuracy and atmospheric horror, Robert Eggers (The Northman, The Lighthouse) is returning to the medieval era with Werwulf, a werewolf tale set in 13th-century England. The script is said to feature dialogue that is faithful to the period, possibly with subtitles or translations. Though still in the early stages, anticipation is high among genre fans.
Joan of Arc
Directed by Baz Luhrmann – Few filmmakers would dare to reinvent the legend of Joan of Arc quite like Baz Luhrmann. Known for his flamboyant, musical-infused direction (Moulin Rouge!, Elvis), Luhrmann is reportedly developing a stylised take on the Maid of Orléans. Early rumours suggest the film will blend history, myth, and modern spectacle in typical Luhrmann fashion. The project is currently in development with casting under way.
A Medieval Moment
Whether it’s grounded realism, historical horror, or visionary spectacle, the Middle Ages are proving fertile ground for filmmakers looking to explore timeless themes — faith, fear, justice, and rebellion. In an era where fantasy has reigned (see Game of Thrones and The Witcher), this new medieval wave leans more toward the historical, yet no less captivating. The Middle Ages are back.
Dr Lorris Chevalier, who has a Ph.D. in medieval literature, is a historical advisor for movies, including The Last Duel and Napoleon. Click here to view his website.
By Lorris Chevalier
From epic quests and holy wars to plague-stricken abbeys and werewolf-infested woods, the medieval period is enjoying a full-blown renaissance in cinema. As sword-and-armour tales surge back into the cultural spotlight, Hollywood is doubling down on projects set in the age of knights, monks, and rebellions. Here’s a look at the most anticipated upcoming medieval films in development or preparing to shoot.
The Peasant
Directed by Dev Patel – Hot off the success of Monkey Man, Dev Patel takes a darker, grittier turn in The Peasant, a medieval action thriller set in 14th-century feudal India. Patel plays a low-born shepherd seeking vengeance after mercenaries raze his village. The film promises brutal swordplay and a grounded aesthetic, with A24 backing the project. Production is expected to begin later in 2025.
Rapture
Directed by Jordan Tannahill – A chilling blend of horror and historical drama, Rapture takes place in 1348 Yorkshire, as the Black Death spreads across Europe. But in this version of history, the dead do not stay dead. Monks in a secluded monastery begin to suspect plague victims are rising again. Starring Will Poulter and Kit Connor, the film will shoot in Hungary with a projected 2026 release.
The Rage
Directed by Paul Greengrass – Set amid the chaos of England’s 1381 Peasants’ Revolt, The Rage (formerly The Hood) tackles class warfare, political rebellion, and grassroots heroism. Andrew Garfield is reportedly circling the lead role, with director Paul Greengrass (United 93, Captain Phillips) promising a raw and radical reimagining of the uprising. Production is said to begin soon.
Werwulf
Directed by Robert Eggers – Known for his painstaking historical accuracy and atmospheric horror, Robert Eggers (The Northman, The Lighthouse) is returning to the medieval era with Werwulf, a werewolf tale set in 13th-century England. The script is said to feature dialogue that is faithful to the period, possibly with subtitles or translations. Though still in the early stages, anticipation is high among genre fans.
Joan of Arc
Directed by Baz Luhrmann – Few filmmakers would dare to reinvent the legend of Joan of Arc quite like Baz Luhrmann. Known for his flamboyant, musical-infused direction (Moulin Rouge!, Elvis), Luhrmann is reportedly developing a stylised take on the Maid of Orléans. Early rumours suggest the film will blend history, myth, and modern spectacle in typical Luhrmann fashion. The project is currently in development with casting under way.
A Medieval Moment
Whether it’s grounded realism, historical horror, or visionary spectacle, the Middle Ages are proving fertile ground for filmmakers looking to explore timeless themes — faith, fear, justice, and rebellion. In an era where fantasy has reigned (see Game of Thrones and The Witcher), this new medieval wave leans more toward the historical, yet no less captivating. The Middle Ages are back.
Dr Lorris Chevalier, who has a Ph.D. in medieval literature, is a historical advisor for movies, including The Last Duel and Napoleon. Click here to view his website.
Click here to read more from Lorris Chevalier
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