Andrew Garfield Stars in Paul Greengrass’ Visceral Take on Medieval Rebellion

Andrew Garfield leads ‘The Uprising’, Paul Greengrass’ raw historical drama about England’s 1381 Peasants’ Revolt. The film weaves together political turmoil, brutal action sequences and class warfare in a story centered on everyday people pushed to their limits.

Garfield plays a fictional farmer called the Ploughman. Devastated by plague that claimed his wife and children, he struggles under crushing taxes imposed by England’s wealthy elite on already impoverished communities.

When King Richard II’s administration introduces a new tax on peasants, the Ploughman reaches his breaking point. His refusal to comply ignites a larger uprising that eventually draws thousands of commoners into direct confrontation with the Crown.

Greengrass brings the same restless energy that defined ‘United 93’ and ‘Captain Phillips’ to this medieval story. His handheld camera work, frenetic battle scenes and visceral approach make audiences feel thrust into the action itself.

The effect transforms a 14th-century narrative into something that feels urgent and alive. Though set centuries ago, ‘The Uprising’ explores economic hardship, political power and ordinary citizens rebelling against entrenched authority themes that resonate today.

Garfield delivers a grounded, emotionally raw performance. He portrays the Ploughman not as a traditional action hero but as an ordinary man whose sorrow and rage gradually transform him into a symbol of defiance.

Jamie Bell appears as radical priest John Ball, while Cosmo Jarvis takes on the role of rebel leader Wat Tyler. The ensemble cast also includes Tom Hollander, Stephen Dillane, Thomasin McKenzie, Jonny Lee Miller, Woody Norman as the young King Richard II, and Katherine Waterston.

The film’s connection to Robin Hood mythology has drawn attention. Early promotional materials sparked confusion about whether Garfield’s character tied directly to the legendary outlaw. ‘The Uprising’ actually explores how the Peasants’ Revolt may have inspired Robin Hood lore, though the movie remains rooted in historical events.

Critical response has been divided. Some reviewers lauded Garfield’s work and Greengrass’ kinetic action sequences. Others felt the film’s bleak visual palette and uneven narrative undermined its political message.

Garfield himself stirred conversation during a recent Q&A when he said he hoped the film would “galvanize” audiences and jokingly remarked he wanted billionaires who watched it to feel threatened. His comments drew online criticism.

Still, ‘The Uprising’ stands as an ambitious effort to bring an overlooked moment in English history to the screen as large-scale drama. With Garfield anchoring the cast and Greengrass commanding the direction, the film delivers a violent, politically charged portrait of a society on the brink.

How audiences receive its blend of period storytelling and contemporary class commentary remains to be seen.

‘The Uprising’ arrives in U.S. theaters September 10, 2026.