Much like 'The 13th Warrior' (1999), 2008's 'Outlander' is a "What if?" take on the classic Beowulf poem. As in "What if the story was not a myth, but based on an actual event". But whereas 'Warrior' is more grounded, with the fantastical ultimately proven to be a product of superstition, here there's a science fiction element that gives the film a bit of a 'Predator' vibe.
Some dodgy f/x work aside (both a product of the time it was made and budgetary constraints), this is a well made film in every sense. It looks good, it's well written and well acted. The score is above board and suitably epic when it needs to be. In short, it's entertaining and, like 'The 13th Warrior' (a far superior film by the way), it deserved a much better fate.
Some dodgy f/x work aside (both a product of the time it was made and budgetary constraints), this is a well made film in every sense. It looks good, it's well written and well acted. The score is above board and suitably epic when it needs to be. In short, it's entertaining and, like 'The 13th Warrior' (a far superior film by the way), it deserved a much better fate.