Andrew Garfield Stars in Gritty Portrayal of 1381 Peasants' Revolt in 'The Uprising'

Andrew Garfield takes center stage in "The Uprising," a new film chronicling the tumultuous events of the 1381 Peasants' Revolt in England. Directed by Paul Greengrass, the movie is described as one of the muddiest and bloodiest films to emerge from the historical drama genre.

The film immerses viewers in the harsh realities of late 14th-century England, a period recently ravaged by the devastating Black Death, which, unlike the more recent pandemic, claimed half the population. Garfield portrays a grief-stricken farmer, known only as 'the Ploughman,' who becomes a recruit for rebel leader Wat Tyler, played by Cosmo Jarvis, and his associate John Ball, portrayed by Jamie Bell.

Fuelled by resentment over punitive taxes and the influence of King Richard II's council, the rebels march on London. The young king, Richard II, is played by Woody Norman, with Tom Hollander as his mentor, Sir Robert Hales. The film depicts a tense confrontation where the king seemingly agrees to the rebels' demands for a more just society, leading to the brutal beheading of some of his councillors.

A new charter is quickly drafted, symbolizing a moment of perceived victory for the peasants. "The Uprising" is noted for its compelling performances, including those by Jonny Lee Miller, Stephen Dillane, Thomasin McKenzie, and Katherine Waterston. The film's visceral depiction of violence and a concluding epilogue that offers a fictionalized narrative arc for Garfield's character are highlighted as potentially divisive elements.

Despite its "whimsical fictional flourishes," "The Uprising" is praised for successfully illuminating a relatively obscure episode in English history, drawing comparisons to and favorable distinctions from other historical dramas like Mike Leigh's "Peterloo." The film is set for release in UK cinemas on October 9.