There is no profit in war. There is no peace in war. There is no happiness nor redemption in war. It brings nothing but damage, seeking to kill, shed blood, and break apart families. Just thinking about how many lives have been lost over the pursuit of power is sickening. And if that troubles you, then “William Tell” will offer the perfect validation for those feelings.
Directed by Nick Hamm, “William Tell” is a poignant and timely retelling of the story of Switzerland’s legendary 14th-century hero. With an outstanding cast featuring Claes Bang, Sir Ben Kingsley, Jonathan Pryce, and Rafe Spall, this film transcends mere historical drama. It becomes a powerful meditation on the destruction wrought by war and the irreparable damage it leaves in its wake.
The narrative unfolds in 1307, during a period when Swiss cantons suffer under the oppressive rule of an Austrian Hapsburg king, portrayed with chilling authority by Kingsley. Under his tyrannical control, the citizens are driven to desperation. In this climate of fear and injustice, a lone farmer, consumed by thoughts of revenge, seeks help from the only man brave enough to stand against the brutality: William Tell. Claes Bang delivers a riveting performance as Tell, a battle-weary warrior who longs for peace and a simple life with his family, but who is ultimately compelled to fight against the injustice that surrounds him.
The film’s central theme—highlighting the futility and destructiveness of war—is presented with unflinching clarity. It does not shy away from depicting the true horrors of conflict, emphasizing that war offers no peace, no joy, no redemption. Instead, it only leaves behind suffering, loss, and fractured lives. Hamm’s direction is both dynamic and thoughtful, using sweeping visuals and tense pacing to underline the emotional and moral weight of each character’s choices.
The standout scene, where Tell is forced to shoot an apple off his son’s head, is depicted with a tension that captures the viewer’s breath. It illustrates not only Tell’s extraordinary skill but also the inhuman pressures placed upon ordinary people by those in power. This moment, like much of the film, reflects the immense human cost of standing up against tyranny and the personal sacrifices required in the fight for justice.
“William Tell” challenges its audience to look beyond the myths and legends and to see the real human suffering caused by war. It is a story not of glorified battles or heroic deeds, but of a man who, despite his reluctance, chooses to fight back when pushed beyond his limits.
For those who are sickened by the senseless loss of life over power, “William Tell” provides a powerful narrative that underscores the tragic consequences of war. It asks us to reflect on the true cost of conflict and to recognize the importance of peace and justice. Through its honest portrayal of resistance and survival, the film serves as a potent reminder that war, in all its forms, is a force that only seeks to destroy, and that there is always a choice to stand for what is right, even in the darkest of times.