The Kid Who Would Be King (2019 Movie Guide)

The Kid Who Would Be King is a 2019 fantasy adventure film that reimagines the King Arthur legend through the eyes of a modern London schoolboy. Written and directed by Joe Cornish, the movie follows 12-year-old Alex Elliot as he discovers the legendary sword Excalibur and finds himself unexpectedly tasked with protecting the world from the ancient enchantress Morgana. The film blends family-friendly adventure with themes of friendship, leadership, and courage, offering an Arthurian tale updated for a contemporary audience.

Louis Ashbourne Serkis leads the young cast as Alex, while Patrick Stewart and Angus Imrie portray the wizard Merlin in his dual-age forms. Rebecca Ferguson takes on the role of Morgana, the villainous half-sister of King Arthur seeking revenge against humanity. The production, backed by Working Title Films and Big Talk Pictures, received a theatrical release through 20th Century Fox in February 2019 in the United Kingdom and March 2019 in the United States.

Critics have described the film as escapist family entertainment with broad appeal for children aged 8 to 12, though some adults have found the narrative predictable. The movie earned a PG rating from the Motion Picture Association, making it accessible to younger audiences while maintaining enough tension to keep viewers engaged.

What Is The Kid Who Would Be King About?

The Kid Who Would Be King centers on Alex Elliot, a bullied 12-year-old living with his mother in London. After defending his friend Bedders from school bullies Lance and Kaye, Alex finds himself in detention and flees the school grounds. His escape leads him to a local construction site where he discovers Excalibur embedded in a slab of concrete, buried beneath the modern city.

When Alex pulls the legendary sword free, he awakens Merlin, the ancient wizard who has waited centuries for a worthy successor to King Arthur. The film draws heavily from traditional Arthurian mythology, adapting familiar elements such as the sword in the stone, Merlin’s magical guidance, and Morgana’s vengeful quest for power. Alex’s journey mirrors Arthur’s original legend, as he must prove himself worthy of Excalibur’s power while assembling his own Knights of the Round Table from his classmates.

Unlike the original Arthurian tales, the film introduces modern technology as a central plot element. Alex and his band of young knights use bicycles, drones, and other contemporary tools to combat Morgana’s demonic army during a climactic battle staged around a solar eclipse. This juxtaposition of medieval fantasy with modern-day ingenuity gives the film a distinctive tone that appeals to younger viewers familiar with current technology.

Key Information at a Glance

• Modern retelling of the King Arthur legend set in contemporary London
• Family-friendly film rated PG for fantasy action violence and mild language
• Strong ensemble cast featuring young actors alongside Patrick Stewart
• Blends medieval fantasy with modern technology and school settings
• Themes focus on growth, bravery, friendship, and turning enemies into allies
• Received positive audience scores on Rotten Tomatoes aggregators

What Is the Plot and Ending of The Kid Who Would Be King?

The narrative unfolds as Alex discovers Excalibur at a construction site and awakens Merlin from his centuries-long slumber. Merlin initially appears as a young boy named “Mertin” before aging into his adult form, a magical transformation that adds humor and mystery to the story. Morgana, Arthur’s evil half-sister who has waited in the shadows for her moment of revenge, senses the sword’s awakening and begins mobilizing her forces.

Merlin trains Alex and gradually assembles a group of knights from Alex’s schoolmates. Bedders becomes Alex’s loyal supporter, while former bullies Lance and Kaye eventually join the cause after their own encounters with Morgana’s dark magic. The quest takes the young knights to Tintagel, the legendary birthplace of King Arthur, where Alex hopes to find answers about his absent father. This journey mirrors traditional Arthurian quests while grounding the story in contemporary coming-of-age themes.

The film’s central conflict emerges when Lance, tempted by power, briefly steals Excalibur and breaks it during a confrontation with Alex. This betrayal forces Alex to rebuild trust with his former enemy and repair the legendary blade. The sword’s restoration becomes a metaphor for reconciliation and the true meaning of worthiness, showing that Excalibur chooses its wielder based on character rather than physical strength.

The Climactic Battle and Ending

The climax centers on a solar eclipse, a celestial event that amplifies Morgana’s dark powers. Merlin enchants the school faculty, allowing Alex to knight all students as an impromptu army. The resulting battle combines medieval tactics with modern technology, as the young knights use bicycles, drones, and improvised weapons to hold off Morgana’s demonic forces. This creative blend of time periods exemplifies the film’s approach to updating Arthurian legend for a contemporary context.

In the film’s resolution, Alex decapitates Morgana’s massive form during Merlin’s banishment spell, fulfilling the ancient prophecy that foretells her defeat. Merlin, his purpose finally complete, departs the mortal world, leaving Alex and his fellow knights to lead their own lives. The ending emphasizes themes of growth, leadership, and the idea that ordinary children can accomplish extraordinary things when they work together.

Who Stars in and Directed The Kid Who Would Be King?

Joe Cornish served as both writer and director for The Kid Who Would Be King, drawing from his experience helming the cult hit Attack the Block. Cornish produced the film through Working Title Films and Big Talk Pictures, with Nira Park, Tim Bevan, and Eric Fellner serving as producers. The production company distribution was handled by 20th Century Fox, making it one of the studio’s family-oriented releases of 2019.

Primary Cast Members

Louis Ashbourne Serkis takes the lead role as Alexander “Alex” Elliot, marking one of his first major starring roles in a feature film. Serkis, son of motion capture actor Andy Serkis, brings youthful energy to the reluctant hero character. Dean Chaumoo plays Bedders, Alex’s steadfast friend who stands by him throughout the adventure.

Tom Taylor portrays Lance, the schoolyard bully who eventually becomes one of Alex’s knights, while Rhianna Dorris plays Kaye, adding complexity to the female bully character. The film’s adult cast includes Denise Gough, Noma Dumezweni, Nathan Stewart-Jarrett, Mark Bonnar, Alexandra Roach, and Genevieve O’Reilly in supporting roles.

Patrick Stewart and Rebecca Ferguson

Patrick Stewart delivers a memorable performance as the adult Merlin, lending his trademark gravitas and wit to the ancient wizard. Stewart’s casting brought established star power to the production, helping to attract wider audiences while providing a mentor figure for the young protagonist. Angus Imrie portrays the younger manifestation of Merlin known as “Mertin,” creating a dynamic two-actor portrayal of the beloved wizard.

Rebecca Ferguson takes on the villainous role of Morgana, Arthur’s vengeful half-sister seeking revenge against the world. Ferguson’s performance balances menace with tragic depth, presenting Morgana as a character wronged by history rather than simply evil. Her presence in the film elevates the production’s star power and provides a worthy adversary for the young heroes to face.

Where Can I Watch The Kid Who Would Be King?

The Kid Who Would Be King received a theatrical release in February 2019 in the United Kingdom and March 2019 in the United States. Following its theatrical run, the film became available for home viewing on April 16, 2019, with digital and physical releases including DVD, Blu-ray, and streaming options. Current streaming availability as of 2024 remains unconfirmed across major platforms including Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu.

Viewers interested in similar fantasy content may want to explore Kung Fu Panda 4 for family-friendly action or Sunrise on the Reaping for dystopian adventure stories. These titles offer comparable tones and age-appropriate content for families seeking their next viewing experience.

Checking Streaming Platforms

Streaming rights for films often shift between platforms over time, making it worthwhile to check major services directly. The film may appear on subscription platforms like Disney+ or Hulu, rental services such as Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV, or purchase options through Google Play and Vudu. Checking current platform listings remains the most reliable way to find where the film is currently available.

For viewers who prefer physical media, the DVD and Blu-ray releases include behind-the-scenes features and deleted scenes that provide additional context for the production. Library systems and rental services may offer these formats as alternatives to streaming.

What Are the Reviews for The Kid Who Would Be King?

Critics have generally described The Kid Who Would Be King as fun, escapist family entertainment with broad appeal for children aged 8 to 12. Reviews from multiple outlets praised the film’s themes of growth, bravery, friendship, and the transformation of enemies into allies. The young ensemble cast received particular commendation for their performances, with Louis Ashbourne Serkis drawing comparisons to a young protagonist capable of carrying a fantasy adventure.

The restraint in humor was noted as a strength, avoiding the over-the-top comedy that can undermine similar family fantasy films. Common Sense Media provided parental guidance, highlighting the film’s suitability for older children while noting elements that younger viewers might find intense.

Critical Reception and Audience Response

Rotten Tomatoes aggregates critical and audience scores for the film, with available results showing positive responses from both critics and younger audience members. The exact percentage scores have varied across updates since the film’s release, though the general consensus remains favorable for the target demographic. Adult viewers have occasionally noted the narrative as predictable, though this same straightforward approach benefits the film’s younger audience.

The film’s connection to traditional Arthurian legend has been praised for introducing classic stories to new generations. Reviewers noted that the adaptation feels respectful to source material while remaining accessible to viewers unfamiliar with medieval mythology. The blend of ancient legend with contemporary London settings creates a unique tone that differentiates the film from other fantasy adaptations.

Production Timeline

The development and release of The Kid Who Would Be King followed a standard production timeline for a major fantasy release. Joe Cornish announced the project with his involvement as both writer and director, bringing his signature style to a family-friendly fantasy context. The production brought together experienced producers from Working Title Films, known for their work on various film genres.

1. 2017 – Project announced with Joe Cornish attached as writer and director
2. 2018 – Principal photography begins
3. January 2019 – World premiere held at Sundance Film Festival
4. February 2019 – Theatrical release in the United Kingdom
5. March 2019 – Theatrical release in the United States
6. April 16, 2019 – Home video and digital release
7. 2020 onwards – Availability shifts to streaming platforms

The premiere at Sundance provided early critical attention and helped build anticipation for the theatrical release. The subsequent theatrical window allowed the film to establish audience interest before transitioning to home video and eventual streaming availability.

Fiction Versus Fact: What We Know and What Remains Unclear

Understanding what is confirmed about The Kid Who Would Be King and what remains uncertain helps viewers set appropriate expectations. The film is definitively a fictional retelling inspired by established Arthurian legend rather than a true story or documented historical account. No evidence suggests the production is based on specific real-world events or individuals.

Confirmed Information

• Fictional story inspired by centuries-old Arthurian legend
• Not based on a true story or documented historical events
• Joe Cornish served as writer, director, and producer
• Released theatrically in February 2019 (UK) and March 2019 (US)
• Received PG rating from the Motion Picture Association
• Home video released April 16, 2019
• No sequel officially announced as of 2024

Information That Remains Unclear

• Precise streaming availability across platforms in 2024 and 2025
• Whether production budget and box office figures will be publicly disclosed
• Future plans for franchise expansion or sequel development
• Specific terms of streaming platform agreements

Arthurian Legend and the Film’s Meaning

The Kid Who Would Be King draws direct inspiration from the rich tradition of Arthurian legend, adapting familiar elements such as Excalibur, Merlin, Morgana, and the Knights of the Round Table for a contemporary setting. The film reimagines King Arthur as Alex Elliot, a bullied schoolboy who must prove himself worthy of the legendary sword. This parallel between ancient kingship and modern childhood speaks to universal themes of growing up, finding one’s place, and discovering hidden potential.

Leadership and Bullying Themes

Central to the film is the transformation of Alex from victim to leader, a journey that mirrors the broader coming-of-age narrative. The character of Bedders represents loyalty and true friendship, while Lance and Kaye’s redemption arc demonstrates that enemies can become allies through shared purpose. The film’s treatment of bullying acknowledges real-world struggles while showing that courage and conviction can change social dynamics.

Merlin’s guidance throughout the story serves as a mentor framework, providing wisdom without removing obstacles that Alex must overcome himself. This approach emphasizes the importance of self-discovery and earned achievement rather than reliance on external validation. The final message—that ordinary children can become leaders when they work together—offers empowering themes for the target audience.

Critical Versus Audience Reception

The divergence between critical and audience reception often characterizes family films that prioritize entertainment value over artistic innovation. While some adult critics found the narrative predictable, younger viewers and families appreciated the straightforward adventure structure and relatable protagonist. This split reception is typical for films targeting children, where complexity often takes a back seat to engagement and moral clarity.

The Kid Who Would Be King delivers escapist family entertainment that introduces classic Arthurian legend to a new generation. Reviews consistently praised the film’s themes of growth and friendship, though noted that adults may find the outcome foreseeable. The young cast’s performances and restrained humor emerged as particular strengths.

Summary

The Kid Who Would Be King stands as a solid addition to the family fantasy genre, offering an accessible retelling of Arthurian legend through the lens of a contemporary London schoolboy. Directed by Joe Cornish with strong performances from Louis Ashbourne Serkis and Patrick Stewart, the film balances action, humor, and meaningful themes about leadership and friendship. While critics noted the predictable narrative, younger audiences found the adventure engaging and the themes relatable. The PG rating makes it appropriate for older children while maintaining enough intensity for a theatrical experience. Viewers seeking similar fantasy content might consider exploring Kung Fu Panda 4 for additional family-friendly action.

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