King Arthur: Legend of the Sword

On a corrupt, smoke stained city, a young man named Arthur grows up knowing nothing of his birthright. His uncle Vortigern wears the crown by force after Arthur’s father is murdered, and danger shadows every alley. Raised among back streets and thieves, Arthur trains to survive while doubts about who he truly is gnaw at him. A fateful moment changes everything when the legend long whispered about the boy reveals itself; he pulls the legendary blade from a stone, signaling to the world that a greater destiny awaits. With enemies closing in and loyalty tested, he must decide whether to embrace a throne he never sought. Along the way he finds loyal allies who help him prevail.

Directed by Guy Ritchie and released in 2017, this stylized take on the Arthurian myth leans into fast paced action and gritty urban texture. It blends contemporary energy with mythic undercurrents, and the screenplay is credited to Joby Harold, Lionel Wigram, and David Dobkin today.

Worldwide box office hovered near the low hundreds of millions, with a figure around 148 million dollars. The film carried a budget reported around 175 million, marking it as a mid range performer in a crowded fantasy market, despite overseas strength internationally.

The picture is notable more for its look and stunt driven energy than for launching a lasting cultural moment. Its urban fairy tale vibe and Ritchie signature rhythm gave fans a brisk, stylish alternate take on a familiar tale that felt less mythic and more grounded in modern swagger.

Critical response was mixed, with praise for visuals, cast energy, and the director's bold voice, but criticism for tone shifts and mythological changes. The film wrestles with themes of rightful leadership, identity, loyalty, and the burden of legacy, that echoes through generations, that resonates with audiences worldwide.