Redbad

Redbad is a 2018 Dutch historical action-drama directed by Roel Reiné, dramatizing the life of Redbad, a real historical figure who ruled the Frisian people in the early 8th century. The film is set during a time of great upheaval in northern Europe, when pagan tribes were under pressure from the expanding Christian Franks. It explores themes of identity, resistance, belief, and betrayal.

The story follows Redbad (played by Gijs Naber), son of King Aldigisl. After a failed battle and a brutal betrayal, Redbad is cast adrift and presumed dead. He survives and is raised by Vikings in the north, learning their ways and returning stronger. When he returns to his homeland, Redbad becomes a symbol of resistance against the invading Christian Franks, led by the ruthless Charles Martel.

The film paints a violent and atmospheric picture of early medieval Europe, with large-scale battles, dramatic betrayals, and strong political-religious conflict. Cinematically, it delivers sweeping landscapes, gritty combat, and a moody, intense tone that fits the mythic weight of its story.

While Redbad ambitiously attempts to blend historical epic with spiritual journey, it received mixed reviews. Its strength lies in its raw intensity and striking visuals, as well as its commitment to depicting the cultural clash between paganism and Christianity with nuance.

Gijs Naber delivers a powerful performance as the reluctant hero — torn between duty, freedom, and fate. Jonathan Banks (of Breaking Bad fame) offers a brief but memorable performance as Pepin of Herstal. Roel Reiné’s direction aims for a Braveheart-style grandeur, and at times achieves it, though some critics noted pacing issues and uneven dialogue.

Despite its flaws, Redbad is notable for bringing a lesser-known historical period to mainstream attention and for its unapologetically northern-European pagan perspective, rarely seen in film.

While Redbad ends with our hero firmly entrenched in his role as leader of the Frisian resistance, history leaves room for a dramatic imagined continuation.

In Redbad 2: The Raven Prophecy, the legend continues as Redbad receives visions of a future where gods fall and kings burn. Haunted by prophecies whispered by Odin’s ravens, he must unite fractured tribes — Saxons, Danes, and Frisians — to make one final stand against the encroaching empire of Martel and the rising tide of Christianity.

The sequel shifts from political rebellion to spiritual warfare. A mysterious figure — a Christian bishop turned heretic — offers Redbad a terrifying revelation: that the war is not only for land or people, but for the very souls of future generations.

As Redbad confronts betrayal within his ranks, and as visions blur into madness, he faces his greatest challenge — to keep faith not in gods, but in his people.

Redbad may not have achieved the international recognition of other historical epics, but its ambition and cultural depth make it a unique cinematic effort. With its rich historical setting and mythic tone, it has strong potential for a darker, deeper sequel. Whether as history or heroic fantasy, the saga of Redbad is far from over.