Outlaw King

In the mid-14th century, Robert the Bruce, a skilled Scottish knight, finds himself entangled in a treacherous battle for Scottish independence from English rule. His life, shaped by loyalty, love, and politics, sets the stage for his transformation into Scotland's beloved hero and the country's future king. As the film begins, we are introduced to Robert, a chivalrous and charismatic knight who is part of a powerful noble family. However, after King Alexander III's mysterious death in 1286, the future of the Scottish throne hangs in the balance. Robert's family is not eligible to claim the throne according to the law of primogeniture. As various claimants vie for the kingship, Robert the Great, a powerful Scottish nobleman, marries the granddaughter of King Alexander III's sister, Margaret, solidifying his own claim to the throne. This marriage sets off a chain of events, leading to a bitter power struggle that ultimately leads to Robert's exile. Following the death of King Alexander III, John Balliol, a Scottish nobleman, is chosen to succeed to the throne. However, Balliol's weakness and inability to assert his authority over a Scotland under English influence lead to his deposition by King Edward I of England. The English claim sovereignty over Scotland, with Robert's claim to the throne being seen as a threat to their ambitions. Outlaw King chronicles Robert the Bruce's transformation from an English loyalist to a passionate defender of Scottish independence. Robert, who was initially content to serve under the English crown, finds himself increasingly disillusioned with their heavy-handed rule and taxation. As English forces, under the command of Henry de Bohun, begin to exert control over Scotland, Robert's brother-in-law, Edward 'The Wolf of Badenoch', is implicated in several atrocities. This includes the murder of the Earl of Ross, a prominent Scottish lord who refuses to swear allegiance to the English crown. In response to these events, a Scottish rebellion is sparked, led by William 'Hardyknicht' Wallace, a skilled warrior and Scottish patriot. Although initially defeated at the Battle of Falkirk, Wallace's bravery and unwavering commitment to Scottish independence inspire many to join the rebellion. Robert the Bruce is forced to flee Scotland after being caught between his loyalty to his English allies and his own growing sense of national pride. His wife, Elizabeth de Burgh, delivers a son, who becomes the future King David II of Scotland. In England, Bruce meets with Scottish nobles who are discontent with English rule. Among them are Thomas Randolph, the younger brother of the Earl of Moray, and his friend, Sir James Douglas, a loyal knight who shares Robert's determination to free Scotland. Together, they form a plan to raise support for the Scottish cause among the nobility and eventually to return to Scotland, where they will challenge English rule. After gathering support and resources, they return to Scotland and join forces with William Wallace. In a thrilling battle sequence, Robert the Bruce faces off against his former English comrades. His transformation into Scotland's champion is marked by his bold leadership, bravery, and unwavering determination to liberate his country. The film reaches its climax with Robert the Bruce and William Wallace leading the Scottish charge against the English forces at the Battle of Stirling Bridge in 1297. Although the English are defeated, it becomes clear that Robert's journey as the rightful King of Scotland has only just begun. Years pass, and Robert the Bruce faces increasing pressure to assert his claim to the throne. After a series of battles and setbacks, he eventually faces off against the English at the Battle of Methven, where he is forced to flee for his life. However, undeterred and more determined than ever, Robert the Bruce continues to gather support for the Scottish cause. In 1306, he makes a bold move by being crowned King of Scotland at Scone, in a coronation that will change the course of history. The film concludes with Robert the Bruce facing an uncertain future as the rightful king of Scotland, but one that is full of hope and determination. Despite the challenges that lie ahead, he is undaunted, knowing that he has found a new sense of purpose and meaning. With the support of his loyal wife, his nobles, and his countrymen, Robert the Bruce is determined to assert Scotland's sovereignty and secure its place as an independent nation.