Director Paul Greengrass’ latest film, The Uprising, explores a pivotal moment in British history through the lens of the 1381 Peasants’ Revolt. Actor Andrew Garfield portrays John Ploughman, a farmer at the center of the rebellion against King Richard III. The story unfolds against a backdrop of devastating circumstances, including the aftermath of the Black Death, crippling taxation, and ongoing warfare between England and France.
A central line in the film—”No kings”—nearly ended up on the cutting room floor. Greengrass initially considered removing the phrase, concerned that it might appear as a direct response to contemporary political protests in the United States. However, Garfield convinced the director to keep it, arguing that the sentiment transcends any single moment in time. According to the actor, the message represents universal human aspirations that remain relevant across centuries.
Garfield emphasized that the concept of dismantling predetermined hierarchies carries profound importance regardless of historical context. He stressed that while the specific meaning may shift between 14th-century England and modern-day America, the underlying message about resisting authoritarian rule remains timeless and resonates across generations.
The Uprising arrives in U.S. theaters on September 10, with a United Kingdom release scheduled for October 9. The film features performances from Cosmo Jarvis and Jamie Bell alongside Garfield, employing Greengrass’ signature handheld, documentary-style approach to action sequences.
Originally reported by Mashable →
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