This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 198! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.
Hi friends,
So, today I’m chatting about a movie that’s like a trip through time (literally and figuratively) – the 2003 flick “Timeline” directed by the legendary Richard Donner (you know, the guy who brought us Superman?). Picture this: medieval battles, time travel, and a dash of romance. What’s not to love, right?
The plot? Oh, it’s a fun ride. It kicks off with a group of archaeology students who are whisked away to 14th-century France to rescue their professor, played by the awesome Billy Connolly. The guy found himself stuck in the past thanks to a time-travel mishap involving a big tech corporation. Yeah, it’s as crazy as it sounds. The team includes Chris Johnston (played by Paul Walker, RIP), Kate Erickson (Frances O’Connor), and André Marek (Gerard Butler – yes, before he was kicking folks into pits in “300”).
Here’s where things get crazy. They land smack dab in the middle of a medieval battle between the French and the English ⚔️. Talk about a history lesson gone sideways!
Now, I’m not gonna lie, the plot does take a few wild turns. One minute they’re rescuing the professor, the next they’re dodging arrows and trying to survive a full-on war. It’s like Indiana Jones meets Back to the Future, with a dash of Braveheart thrown in for good measure. There’s even a villain with questionable morals, played by the fantastically creepy David Thewlis (remember Professor Quirrell from Harry Potter? Yeah, that guy!). He’s the one who messed with the time machine in the first place, and let’s just say his motives are a little sketchy .
But hey, that’s what makes this movie so much fun! It’s a popcorn flick through and through, with enough action sequences to keep you glued to the screen. Plus, the cast is stellar. Paul Walker delivers his usual brand of charisma, and there’s a surprising amount of heart to his character.
And let’s not forget Gerard Butler (hello swoon factor!), who shows up as a knight with a mysterious past. Seriously, can we talk about how good he looks in armor? Just saying. And his portrayal of Marek is just perfect. He’s got this rough-around-the-edges vibe that fits beautifully into the medieval scenery. Plus, there’s a subplot of romance that adds a little spice to the whole time-jumping adventure.
The thing is, the film didn’t get rave reviews when it came out. Some folks even called it boring – can you believe it? But, hear me out, I really liked it. The action hardly ever lets up; one minute they’re dodging arrows, the next they’re sword fighting with French knights. It’s non-stop!
I get that “Timeline” isn’t winning any Oscars, but it’s got a special place in my movie-loving heart. It’s like, sometimes you just need a film that doesn’t make you think too hard, you know? Just pure entertainment, with a little bit of history thrown in. For a mindless escape into medieval mayhem, “Timeline” totally delivers.
So, if you haven’t seen “Timeline” yet, give it a shot. Don’t go in expecting a cinematic masterpiece – just some good old-fashioned fun. Who knows, maybe you’ll end up liking it as much as I did!
Catch you in the next one!
Roger
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