William Tell

Set against the stunning Swiss Alps, William Tell reimagines a pivotal chapter in the struggle for Swiss independence. Directed by Nick Hamm, the historical epic follows legendary folk hero William Tell (Claes Bang), a seasoned huntsman who sparked an open rebellion against the blood-thirsty Gessler (Connor Swindells), who seeks to conquer Switzerland for the Holy Roman Empire and lay claim to Princess Bertha (Ellie Bamber), the strong-willed niece of the Austrian King, with an undying loyalty to her mother’s Swiss heritage. 

While the film boasts several standout features – from its costumes that seamlessly blend folkloric charm with historically grounded mediaeval designs to its dynamic colourisation and well-executed battle scenes – what truly distinguishes it from other historical epics is its egalitarian approach to heroism. William Tell is not merely Tell’s story, but a collective tale of Swiss defiance – the peasant who slays the brutish tax collector exhibits just as much courage and resolve as Tell himself, while the film’s female characters emerge as steadfast and active participants in the struggle. In a rare and refreshing portrayal, the women are shown fighting for their country and against Austrian tyranny alongside their male counterparts, not simply for the sake of their husbands, children or immediate family. This breaks away from the traditional mould of female bravery, which is often confined to the domestic or familial sphere, and allows the women to be recognised as valiant defenders of their homeland rather than merely the wives, mothers and daughters of these defenders.

This vision of courage is powerful in both subtle and dramatic moments, such as Tell’s wife, Suna’s tiny yet resolute nod to her husband as he raises his crossbow to shoot the apple atop their son’s head – a punishment for defying Gessler’s demand to kneel before the Austrian King – and Princess Bertha’s dauntless assassination of her uncle, the Austrian King, in his sleep when she sees no other way to save her country and allies. These scenes show the shared resolve and sacrifices of all those involved in the rebellion, transforming the film from a singular heroic tale into a compelling celebration of collective resistance. Similarly, the film’s final scene introduces Queen Agnes (Jess Douglas-Welsh), the late King’s daughter – a deeply pious and maleficent figure determined to avenge her father’s death. The sight of a formidable, chanting army gathered outside her castle, paired with her eerie resemblance to a sinister Joan of Arc, hints at an exciting new direction for a potential sequel while building on the tension and stakes established in William Tell.

Christina Yang

William Tell is released nationwide on 17^th January 2025.

Watch the trailer for William Tell here: