Strap on your armor, because 'Flesh and Blood' is here to swing its axe at politically-correct revisionism. Released in 1985, this gritty medieval epic directed by Paul Verhoeven and set in the blood-soaked battlegrounds of the 16th century is as raw and unapologetic as films get—and that’s why it’s a masterpiece. The film, starring Rutger Hauer and Jennifer Jason Leigh, doesn't shy away from the brutal realities of the era, nor does it wrap its storytelling in fluffy, feel-good silk. Set in a post-Plague European landscape, it casts light on human survival at its most visceral. Shot on location in the arid landscapes of Spain, it exposes the gritty nature of life in a way that seems intentionally crafted to make today's virtue signalers squirm.
First on the list, the strong, masculine characters leading the crumbling band of mercenaries in this gripping film. Rutger Hauer's Martijn embodies the boldness and complexity that people once admired in a warrior. None of the pandering modern male leads who spend more time pontificating over their Latte than strategizing combat come close. In 'Flesh and Blood,' virtue is earned through grit and ruthlessness. Oh, let's not forget about the resourceful Agnes played by Jennifer Jason Leigh. Her character puts modern ‘boss-ladies’ to shame, employing wit and genuine resilience in a world where satisfactory conclusions come with blood.
Talking about the plot, 'Flesh and Blood' dares to swim against the current with its intricate explorations of morality and human vice. It throws the viewer into scenarios where good and evil are not separated by clear lines but are a swirling, chaotic mess. The film doesn't shy away from depicting the brutality and lawlessness of medieval times; it thrives on it. Far from today's landscape of 'safe spaces,' viewers are instead confronted with choices as stark and complex as their medieval counterparts.
Let’s not ignore the film’s grand setting, which catapults 'Flesh and Blood' into a visual feast unlike any knight-in-shining-armor tale. The filmmakers opted for natural locations and gone was the artifice of safe studio sets. Verhoeven sought to capture the harshness of a world struggling to rise from the ashes of pandemic blight, famine, and endless war. It’s a historical context that offers a refreshing antidote to today’s digitally manipulated backdrops.
What gets this movie really going—and why it feels so relevant even today—is its unyielding take on human instincts. It's raw, it’s visceral, and it reminds us of what it means to struggle for survival beyond Twitter likes and timeouts. In a world that often demands followers to toe some politically correct line, 'Flesh and Blood' offers a refreshing break, taking us back to a time when might was right.
The script doesn’t lack red meat for thought, either. Gerard Soeteman, who also wrote Verhoeven’s 'Soldier of Orange,' developed a screenplay that aligns with broader themes, such as political betrayal, war, and the fluidity of allegiance. For those looking for allegories and intentional parallels to current events, there are no shortage of underlying themes. Those who prioritize narrative sanctity will find this artistic drive inspiring.
Don't overlook the directorship of Paul Verhoeven. Known for pushing envelopes, Verhoeven never softens the historical jagged edges in 'Flesh and Blood'. This authenticity is often avoided by filmmakers who fear offending today’s easily disturbed sensibilities. He built his narrative on the foundation of robust storytelling rather than pandering to focus groups. The seamless blend of reality with a rare mix of storytelling flair demands acknowledgment.
What also makes this film noteworthy is its reluctance to sanitize history. 'Flesh and Blood' doesn't mask the discomfort or tension in the means of achieving objectives. This movie stands as a reminder that our ancestors thrived on conquest and risk-taking—a history that is often conveniently forgotten when reshaping narratives to fit new ideologies. A celebration of ambition over conformity indeed!
In essence, 'Flesh and Blood' is a fierce portrayal of the human condition that may cause a liberal recoil, forcing viewers to confront brutal history tempered with raw morality. With top-notch action, an unfiltered lens on humanity, and an unyielding narrative that commands respect, this film smashes through the glass of contemporary complacency and demands audiences meet it on its own turbulent terms. It's unapologetically intense, daring you to appreciate a time when glory was tangible, if perilous.