Excalibur

Excalibur

Year: 1981

Runtime: 140 min

Language: English

Director: John Boorman

AdventureDramaFantasyRomance

In this majestic retelling, King Arthur's legendary quest unfolds with unparalleled grandeur. The sword Excalibur is forged, the Round Table rises and falls, and the noble pursuit of the Holy Grail drives the heroes to their limits. Amidst the epic struggle between Merlin's wisdom and Morgana's malice, a timeless tale of chivalry, power, and destiny unfolds.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Excalibur (1981)
Trace every key event in Excalibur (1981) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.
1

Conflict Erupts

In ancient England, a brutal conflict ignites between Uther Pendragon and the Duke of Cornwall. This power struggle sets the stage for a tumultuous period filled with betrayal and magic.

Ancient England
2

Merlin's Intervention

To bring an end to the violence, the legendary wizard Merlin acquires the magical sword Excalibur from the Lady of the Lake. He then bestows it upon Uther, further solidifying his claim to the throne.

Lady of the Lake's domain
3

A Fragile Truce

With Excalibur in hand, Uther achieves reluctant recognition from Cornwall as king, establishing a brief and fragile peace. This celebration creates an opportunity for Uther's infatuation with Igrayne, Cornwall's wife.

Cornwall's castle
4

Betrayal Unfolds

Desperate to possess Igrayne, Uther seeks Merlin's help again. In a dark twist, Uther's men ambush and kill Cornwall, allowing Uther to disguise himself and spend the night with Igrayne, resulting in her conceiving a child.

Cornwall's castle
5

Birth of a Heir

After months of turmoil, Igrayne gives birth to Uther's son, but this joy is soon overshadowed. Merlin takes the child away as promised, leaving a heartbroken Igrayne to cope with her loss.

6

The Last Stand

As Uther attempts to reclaim his son, he is severely injured by Cornwall's loyalists. In his final moments, he drives Excalibur into a stone, ensuring that only the true heir can claim it.

The stone
7

Sixteen Years Pass

For the next sixteen years, Excalibur remains trapped in the stone, with knights attempting to pull it free. Each failed attempt heightens the anticipation of finding the rightful heir.

The stone
8

The Chosen One Emerges

During a joust, Arthur, the son of Uther, miraculously pulls Excalibur from the stone, shocking everyone. This event sparks debate over his legitimacy and ability to rule.

Jousting field
9

Rise of Arthur

With Merlin's guidance, Arthur prevails at Leondegrance's castle, displaying his nobility without violence. This victory earns him respect and recognition as the rightful ruler.

Leondegrance's castle
10

Camelot Flourishes

Under Arthur's leadership, Camelot thrives, unifying the kingdom and attracting many. However, challenges arise as Lancelot tests Arthur's humility in a pivotal confrontation.

Camelot
11

Lancelot's Loyalty

Recognizing the significance of humility, Arthur discards Excalibur, demonstrating his growth. Lancelot distances himself, torn between his loyalty to Arthur and his love for Guenevere.

Camelot
12

Morgana's Scheme

Morgana la Fey, driven by resentment, plots against Arthur's rule. She incites Gawain to challenge Guenevere, leading to a duel that puts loyalties to the test.

Camelot
13

Merlin's Downfall

As Morgana plots, she successfully captures Merlin, learning his secrets and imprisoning him. Meanwhile, Guenevere and Lancelot's affair comes to light, leading to a tragic confrontation.

Merlin's cavern
14

Quest for the Grail

Amidst the turmoil, Arthur sends his knights on a quest for the Holy Grail, seeking hope to restore his kingdom. However, this journey proves long and treacherous.

15

Final Confrontation

In a climactic battle against Mordred, Arthur faces his son, leading to their mutual demise. With his last breath, Arthur instructs Perceval to return Excalibur to the lake, sealing his fate.

Camlann

Last Updated: October 27, 2024 at 21:51