King Arthur and the Round Table in the Movies

Posted on May 9, 2017 at 8:00 am

This week’s release, “King Arthur: Legend of the Sword,” starring Charlie Hunnam and Jude Law and directed by Guy Ritchie, gives us a chance to look at some of the other movie depictions of one of Western literature’s most significant stories.

The Sword in the Stone

This animated Disney classic about Arthur’s early years features one of the all-time great movie battles, between Merlin and Madame Mim.

Knights of the Round Table

Ava Gardner, Mel Ferrer, and Robert Taylor star in this 1952 version of the story.

Excalibur

The striking visuals are a highlight of this memorable version from director John Boorman, starring Nigel Terry, Helen Mirren, and Nicol Williamson as Merlin.

Camelot

This musical with songs by Lerner and Lowe stars Richard Harris, Vanessa Redgrave, and Franco Nero.

Monty Python and the Holy Grail

The Python’s affectionate tribute and send-up is a comedy classic — and inspired the Broadway hit “Spamalot.”

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