The 13th Warrior (1999) Review in 2025
A historical action-adventure film set in the 10th century, following a group of warriors as they battle against a fearsome beast.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is not suitable for young children due to its intense violence and mature themes.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is worth watching for fans of historical action-adventure films and those who enjoy a good battle scene. However, it may not be the best choice for those who are easily disturbed by violence or gore.
Spoiler Alert!
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The movie follows a group of warriors, including Ahmad ibn Fadlan, a poet and warrior from Baghdad, as they journey to Scandinavia to help a king fight against a mysterious creature that is terrorizing his people. Along the way, they encounter various obstacles and battles, and Ahmad must confront his own demons and learn to trust his new comrades.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a good balance of action and drama. However, it feels a bit predictable at times and the plot twists are not particularly surprising.
acting8.50/10
The acting is generally strong, with Antonio Banderas delivering a particularly standout performance as Ahmad ibn Fadlan. The supporting cast is also well-acted and adds to the overall tension and drama of the film.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with Ahmad ibn Fadlan being a particularly interesting and relatable protagonist. The supporting cast is also well-acted and adds to the overall tension and drama of the film.
direction8.00/10
John McTiernan's direction is solid, with a good eye for action and a sense of scope and scale. However, the pacing can be a bit uneven at times and some scenes feel a bit rushed.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is stunning, with beautiful shots of the Scandinavian landscapes and a great use of lighting and composition. The action sequences are also well-choreographed and thrilling.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The 13th Warrior has a lot going for it, including a engaging story, well-developed characters, and stunning cinematography. The action sequences are thrilling and the supporting cast is well-acted.
Cons
The pacing can be a bit uneven at times and some scenes feel a bit rushed. The plot twists are not particularly surprising and the film's themes may not be to everyone's taste.
Notable Quotes
"I am not a warrior, I am a poet. But I will fight for my life and for the lives of my comrades."
"The only thing more terrifying than the beast is the darkness within ourselves."
