‘The Uprising’ Review: Andrew Garfield in Paul Greengrass’ Intense but Monotonous Medieval Actioner

The 14th century was filled with upheaval and turmoil, including the bubonic plague, the Hundred Years War, and the death of a notable Scottish figure. However, the English peasants experienced a particularly rebellious uprising in 1381. Frustrated with their impoverished living conditions, they revolted against their wealthy and powerful rulers, believing that if the serfs were denied education, they would not be able to calculate the consequences of their actions.

There were more poor people than wealthy individuals, and if the wealthy did not treat the poor with respect, there would be fewer of them – at least temporarily.

Director Paul Greengrass, known for his work in the Jason Bourne movies, returns with a new politically-charged film that has thrilling pacing, intense violence, and some questionable choices. "The Uprising" is not a story about modern income inequality, but rather a warning about what could happen if the 99% focused their anger on the actual oppressors.

Andrew Garfield stars as Ploughman, a man who ploughs. His simple life would remain uncomplicated if the aristocrats did not interfere in his village. However, England is facing financial difficulties, and the powerful individuals on King Richard II's council, who make all the decisions because Richard is still a child and rarely leaves his room due to nightmares, must make a difficult choice.

They can either tax the wealthy and ask for representation, which is not feasible, or tax the poor, flood the country with armed forces, and sexually assault women under the pretense of verifying identities. Ploughman's act of defiance triggers a rebellion that spreads to other villages, eventually leading them to march en masse to London with their grievances.

Throughout the film, Greengrass delivers thrilling performances from Garfield, Thomasin Mackenzie, and Jamie Bell, who wrestle with their values as their best intentions deteriorate into harrowing mob violence. The film features a visceral portrayal of the proletariat rising up and defeating their oppressors, which could lead the audience to believe that this outcome could be positive.

However, the film gradually loses its optimism and delivers a bitter, nighttime conclusion that undermines the hope it initially provided. The ending is a harsh and realistic reminder of the potential consequences of such actions, leaving the audience with a sense of dissatisfaction. The final scenes of "The Uprising" are reminiscent of an ending from the silent film "The Last Laugh" by F.W.

Murnau, which was so unsatisfying that the director had to add a Hollywood-esque resolution to it. Greengrass does not take it that far, but the ending is still unconvincing enough to diminish the overall impact of the movie and leave a sour taste in the audience's mouth. Despite its strong points, the film's second conclusion robs it of its vitality, and the audience is left questioning whether they should accept Greengrass's call to action.