Film Analysis Essay on The 13th Warrior

Introduction

The 1999 film, "The 13th Warrior", by Antonio Banderas and Maria Bonnevie is based on the novel, "Eaters of the Dead," by Michael Crichton. The creators present an unforgettable adventure reminiscent of some of the most creative pieces in the film industry. In the film, an essential emissary is abducted by a band of warriors and forced to become part of their quest in battling a mysterious creature. The creatures are legendary for their habit of consuming everything in their paths. Not only is the film captivating in its presentation of the narrative through the use of creative elements and costumes, but Banderas and Bonnevie also inject life into the collection of scenes by use of appropriate camera angles and excellent sound effects.

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The theme of fear for the unknown occupies a central place in the film, manifesting in the form of the demon that the 13 warriors so much fear that they dare not name him. When a young man enters the camp and request for aid because the kingdom of his father is under attack, Buliwyf is recruited without his consent (Banderas and Bonnevie). The "angel of death" determines that the conquest will succeed if 13 warriors join it and the 13th warrior needed not to be a Norseman. A ferocious and frightening foe eventually surrounds the army. Ahmed, the emissary, is forced to forgo his fears and assist in battling the elusive invaders and they emerge from the shroud of fog in the darkness of the night elucidating the theme of fear for the unknown that occupies a central place in the film.

Characterisation plays a major role in not only developing but also shaping the audience's perception of the characters, their roles in the play and their reasons for being. A great deal of mystery and superstition surrounds the 'Wendol' as they are known (Banderas and Bonnevie). Viking believes they are supernatural beings. They formed a race of legendary creatures that were half and half beast. Through the use of the creatures' lurking in the deep forests, the directors of the film show the level of helplessness of men in the face of the strange creature. The use of various camera angles is also eminent as it brings out proper horrific characterisation relevant for the narration with specific camera movements and gradual transitions serving specific purposes as well.

The Directors of the film invest a generous level of creativity in enhancing the film theatrics that gradually adds flavour to the narration. The director uses loud soundtracks to prompt to the viewer and show impending danger or horror (Banderas and Bonnevie). The use of happy music shows bliss whereas sombre music denotes sadness. An attentive viewer would notice that the character of Antonio Banderas spends weeks travelling with the Vikings. As an educated man who probably spoke more than one language, over time he gradually picks up bits and pieces of the language of the Vikings. Eventually, he surprises them with the fine ability to speak their language.

Conclusion

Overall, the film "The 13th Warrior" by Antonio Banderas and Maria Bonnevie goes far and wide in employing a host of theatrics that ranges from various lighting, different sound techniques, a host of costumes, various forms of characterisation and thematic expression to attain a gallant cinematic expression. Proper sound effects enrich the viewing experience, and the actors were effective in making the film wholesome and fulfilling. The filmmakers went to a great length to choose creative elements for the film. The directors use fear to show naivety among the natives.

Works Cited

Banderas, Antonio and Maria Bonnevie. The 13th Warrior. 1999. <www.youtube.com/watch?v=aVVURiaVgG8>.Accessed 21 December 2018