'The Eagle' reviewed by Simon Howard

The Eagle (12A)

Running Time: 114 mins

Director: Kevin Macdonald

Cast: Channing Tatum, Jamie Bell, Mark Strong, Donald Sutherland

Rating: ***** (3 stars)

Channing Tatum and Jamie Bell take the lead roles in this adaptation of Rosemary Sutcliff’s classic novel ‘The Eagle of the Ninth’. Set in 2nd Century Roman Britain, the story tells the tale of a master and slave who embark on a perilous quest beyond the edges of the known world.

Marcus Aquila (Tatum) arrives in Britain determined to restore the tarnished reputation of his father Flavius. Twenty years before the film begins, Flavius had marched a 5,000 strong army into Caledonia and never returned. The outcome of this saw the Roman Emperor Hadrian build a wall to seal off their territory- Hadrian’s Wall.

Upon hearing a rumour that his father’s golden emblem, the Eagle of the Ninth, has been seen in a tribal temple in the far north, Marcus sets off with a Esca (Bell), a slave he befriends at a gladiatorial contest, across Hadrian’s Wall.

As Marcus’s slave navigates him through the region, he realises the mystery of his father’s disappearance may well be linked to his own slave’s identity and loyalty.

Filmed in the Scottish highlands, the scenery and landscapes are beautifully shot and add a real epic feel to the film. The vast wilderness is made to feel savage and dangerous at every turn, especially when the duo come face to face with the warriors of the fearsome Seal Prince.

The numerous action sequences are impressive and the lack of CGI makes for a refreshing change. There is an intriguing focus throughout on the interplay of pride, loyalty and masculinity. The historical element does sometimes begin to tire but for those interested in Roman Britain it is a fascinating insight.


Verdict:

Channing Tatum proves he is more than just a pretty face and his relationship with Jamie Bell is a likeable pairing. Whilst the film is unlikely to be remembered as a classic in years to come, as an action-adventure it is a commendable effort which entertains for most of its lengthy running time.