Dawn of the Dragonslayer (2011) is a film of the fantasy and adventure genres with feature credits going to Anne K. Black. Such a film produced independently as this one is about dragons, revenge, and honor – ubiquitous themes in the eyes of a young hero who seeks his place in the mythical, medieval world and brings the tale together as it unfolds throughout. The movie contains good scenic sights and a perennial plot which is suitable for the lovers of classical fantasy film patronage.
Synopsis
The plot revolves around Will Shepherd (Richard McWilliams), a common farmworker who becomes orphaned after a dragon raid. Wills saw his father die in the dragon raid and, for the sake of revenge, honors his father’s name and leaves his quiet life of the countryside to venture out and hunt the dragon that killed his father. Wills ends up in the territory of Baron Sterling who belongs to a rich and powerful noble family. Will becomes a baron’s servant, and in exchange for his room and food, Will tries to become a world-renowned dragon slayer.
As the tale unfolds, he encounters Kate, the Baron’s daughter (Nicola Posener), and the two characters develop an emotional bond which intensifies over the course of the tale. Their relationship, however, is strained by their different social classes and the fact that Will’s attempt at revenge is directly opposed by the baron. Guided by Kate’s encouragement, Will prepares himself for the eventual confrontation with the dragon, vowing to protect those dear to him, accept his role as a hero and find love along the way.
Key Characters
Will Shepherd: Richard McWilliams portrays Will, who is a courageous yet untrained farm laborer whose evolution from an average farm worker to a dragon slayer is marked by vengeance but also self realization. His character carries the values of honor, courage and tenacity.
Kate Sterling: Portrayed by Nicola Posener, Kate is the headstrong and caring daughter of Baron Sterling. She is very supportive of Will and feels a bond with him which makes it difficult for her to remain true to her family and her social standing.
Baron sterling: The role of the stern and protective baron is played by Philip Brodie. His suspicion towards Will is rooted in his disposition to his daughter as well as his responsibility for protection of the family’s name.
Cinematic Style and Aesthetic
Dawn of the Dragonslayer displays a dark and moody aesthetic, integrating the beautiful scenery to the fullest extent. The movie is set in Ireland, hence the expansive rural landscapes that add verisimilitude to the film’s medieval fantasy epic. Its special effects – within the means of its budget – are quite sufficient to tell the tale especially in establishing the threatening imagery of the dragon.
Themes and Reception
The film may have not found a critical audience, but Dawn of the Dragonslayer has a more focused and specific fan base that adores fantasy and medieval storyline. The film walks through some able plots which include bravery, retribution, love, and the rise of a commoner to a hero. The concept is simple and the production unfortunately low budget but it is said to be credible with the interaction between the two main characters in the movie.
Legacy and Similar Recommendations
If you loved the story of Dawn of the Dragonslayer then you should check out Eragon (2006), Dragonheart (1996) and Seventh Son (2014), they are the same mixture of fantasy and adventure and are aimed at the growth of the individual and heroism.
