Ridley Scott’s intense historical drama, The Last Duel, will become available for streaming on Hulu starting November 1, bringing renewed attention to this violent and underrated film. Despite opening in theaters in 2021 during the global pandemic and underperforming at the box office, the movie has earned critical acclaim and holds a strong position among Ridley Scott’s works.
Background and Release Details of The Last Duel
The Last Duel, directed by Ridley Scott, is set during the Hundred Years’ War between France and England and dramatizes the final officially sanctioned duel in French history. The film centers on the bitter rivalry between Jean de Carrouges, portrayed by Matt Damon, and Jacques Le Gris, played by Adam Driver. Its release in theaters was hampered by the pandemic, resulting in low ticket sales despite an excellent critical reception. The movie maintains an 85% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes from critics and an 81% audience score, reflecting widespread appreciation from those who have seen it.
The Story Behind The Last Duel
The film is based on true events and recounts the conflict that begins when Marguerite, Jean de Carrouges’ wife, accuses Jacques Le Gris of a heinous crime. This accusation unleashes a deadly trial by combat, forcing the fate of the three individuals into a brutal fight governed by medieval law and belief. The story unfolds through three different perspectives, highlighting the harsh realities and complexities of honor, justice, and loyalty at that time.
“Based on actual events, the film unravels long-held assumptions about France’s last sanctioned duel between Jean de Carrouges and Jacques Le Gris, two friends turned bitter rivals. Carrouges is a respected knight known for his bravery and skill on the battlefield. Le Gris is a Norman squire whose intelligence and eloquence make him one of the most admired nobles in court. When Carrouges’ wife, Marguerite, is viciously assaulted by Le Gris, a charge he denies, she refuses to stay silent, stepping forward to accuse her attacker, an act of bravery and defiance that puts her life in jeopardy. The ensuing trial by combat, a grueling duel to the death, places the fate of all three in God’s hands.”
Underappreciated Status Among Ridley Scott’s Fans
Although Ridley Scott is widely celebrated for classics like Gladiator, Alien, and The Martian, The Last Duel has not received comparable attention from his fanbase. Many consider it one of his most powerful and violent films, yet it remains relatively overlooked. Viewers who have engaged with it often express strong admiration for its storytelling and production quality.
The best Ridley Scott movie of the decade, much better than House of Gucci, Napoleon, and Gladiator II,
wrote one Rotten Tomatoes user.
Others praised its narrative technique and intense visuals, particularly emphasizing the film’s unique structure, which retells events from the perspectives of the three main characters, enhancing the complexity of the story.
The way they told the story from three different points of view was really interesting, but the actual duel itself was wild and amazing to look at, even though it was very violent.
Notable Cast Bringing the Drama to Life
The film features an impressive cast that includes Matt Damon as Jean de Carrouges, Adam Driver in the role of Jacques Le Gris, and Jodie Comer playing Marguerite. Ben Affleck also stars, along with Michael McElhatton and Harriet Walter, each adding depth to this richly crafted historical tale.
Why The Last Duel’s Streaming Debut Matters
The arrival of The Last Duel on Hulu is an opportunity for a wider audience to experience a film that combines historical drama with intense action and complex storytelling. As it becomes easier to access, viewers can reassess its significance in Ridley Scott’s career and appreciate its exploration of themes like justice, honor, and survival under brutal medieval conditions. The film’s release on streaming platforms like Hulu may also reignite interest in historical epics within contemporary cinema audiences.
