Storyline

A cultured diplomat joins a band of savage warriors in time to meet an even more fearsome enemy in this historical adventure. In 922 A.D., Ibn Fadlan (Antonio Banderas) is a Muslim emissary from Baghdad en route to meet with the King of Saqaliba when he is captured by a gang of Vikings. While Ibn and his people are intelligent and well-mannered, the Vikings are a rowdy and sometimes unpleasant lot, with an unquenchable appetite for food, alcohol, and women. However, in time he develops an understanding and respect for the Viking warriors and is welcomed into their society by their leader, Buliwyf. However, Ibn must now join them as they return to their homeland once they receive word of an invasion by a huge pack of bloodthirsty invaders who will destroy and eat anything in their path -- including the flesh of the men they have killed.

Plot Keywords

arab, viking, middle ages, cannibal, violence, snake, rain, gore, bow and arrow, sword fight, warrior, combat, battle, cannibalism, forest, cave, horse riding, reference to god, good versus evil, ends with funeral

Short Review

Akira Kurosawa's brilliant samurai movies -- especially 1957's Throne of Blood -- are a visual influence. But the script lacks the dignity that infuses Kurosawa's equally blood-thirsty characters.

Trailer

Streaming Service

1. Vudu : [SD - Buy: 9.99, Rent: 3.99] [HDX - Buy: 17.99, Rent: 3.99]

2. Microsoft Store : Rent From $2.99

3. Amazon Video : From $9.99 to buy