There’s a new historical epic on the horizon. And, no, we’re not talking about a certain swords and sandals sequel. Directed by Nick Hamm, William Tell is a fresh cinematic take on the fabled Swiss marksman that could do for crossbows what Gladiator did for gladius swords. Best known for shooting an apple off his son’s head and that joyful Overture later co-opted by The Lone Ranger, Hamm’s feature adaptation is a long-overdue account of a legendary folk hero’s iconic story.
Set in Switzerland in 1307 it stars Claes Bang (Dracula, Bad Sisters) as Tell, a huntsman and veteran of the crusades who returns home looking to settle down with his family. But with the country facing aggression from neighbouring Austria in their pursuit for more land, Tell once again takes up arms, putting him in the path of Gessler (Connor Swindells) – the vindictive viceroy to Austria’s brutal ruler (Ben Kingsley).
