See more movie reviews

The King's Guard (PG-13, 2000)

common sense media says

Very uneven film ultimately falters.

parents & educators say
Be the first to review it

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that the female characters are strong and capable, a nice change from the usual damsel in distress. There are some clever plot twists and some exciting swordfights. But the violence is surprisingly brutal, which may be upsetting for younger viewers.

Violence: Very violent, characters killed.
Sex: Kissing.
Language: Not applicable.
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on The King's Guard

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about whether the amount and type of violence is necessary to the story.They can also discuss the strong female characters and use the discussion as a jumping point to research examples of strong women who lived during The Middle Ages, as well as the limitations that women faced during this era.

What's the story?

What's the story?
Princess Gwendolyn (Ashley Jones) is being escorted by the king's guards to meet the man she has promised to marry. At first, she isn't impressed with handsome Captain Jim Reynolds (Trevor St. John), but when they're attacked by traitors and thieves, she learns to respect and then love him.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

This very uneven film has a strong cast and an ambitious story, but it falters in execution. Top actors Eric Roberts, Ron Perlman, and Lesley-Anne Down appear in supporting roles, while the leads are taken by young unknowns. The story seems directed at younger audiences, but there is much more violence than movies for that age group. The costumes and settings are fine, but the sound and cinematography show the limited budget.

Female characters are strong and capable, a nice change from the usual damsel in distress. There are some clever plot twists and some exciting swordfights. But the violence is surprisingly brutal, which may be upsetting for younger viewers.

Movie themes & details

Movie Details
Studio: Lionsgate
Director: Jonathan Tydor
Cast: Eric Roberts, Lesley-Anne Down, Ron Perlman
Genre: Drama
Run time: 92 minutes
Theatrical release: August 1, 2000
DVD release: August 28, 2001
MPAA Rating: PG-13
MPAA explanation: violence
This review was written by Nell Minow
 
 

Review It

 

Review The King's Guard

Hang on! You need to be a member to post your review.
A safe community is important to us. Please observe our guidelines.
 

There aren’t any reviews yet. Ask your friends to review this title.

More reviews ...

An independent voice for families
Age-appropriate reviews
Advice on the big issues
 

vote now

Will you see The King's Guard?

Won't miss it
On the fence
No way

Already seen it? What do you think?

I recommend it
It's a pass
 

Great alternatives handpicked by our editors

Other swashbuckling picks
For kids who love adventure
Browse more movies
About our rating system
ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child, some content may not be right for some kids
OFF: Not age appropriate for kids this age
Our child development rating guidelines