Some modern and medieval historians defined the Dark Ages as an era when illiteracy was widespread, warfare was common, life was agrarian and hard, the Roman Church heavily influenced society, and people lived under a restrictive form of government called feudalism. Ridley Scott's 2005 film "The Kingdom of Heaven" allowed people to catch a glimpse of everyday life during the Dark Ages. This film, which starred Orlando Bloom,was a fictional account of the famous Third Crusade, when the Muslim General Saladin reclaimed Jerusalem for the Saracens. Attila the Hun is considered one of the most famous military commanders and warriors in history, and actor Gerard Butler portrayed him in the 2001 movie "Atilla," which depicted his life. In the movie, Attila is credited with helping to bring about Rome's collapse, which ushered in the Dark Ages.
During the Dark Ages, people told stories about legendary figures who fought against injustice and led armies to grand victories. Many of these stories were based on historical characters, though their stories have been romanticized. Many movies have been made about Robin Hood, who may or may not have been based on a real historical personage. Kevin Costner appeared in a 1992 version, and Russell Crowe starred in a 2010 movie depiction of this famous outlaw. The 2009 movie "Pathfinder" was centered on the historical account of the Vikings' temporary settlements in Greenland.
Life during the Dark Ages was hard, and people entertained themselves with dance, music, drink and stories of powerful warriors, murderous demons and fearsome dragons. "Beowulf," released in 2007, tells the story of a mighty warrior who has to battle against a demon named Grendel. This film was based on a poem written by an unknown Anglo-Saxon poet in the 9th century. An adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien's novel "The Lord of the Rings" became a box office hit in 2001. This movie, starring Elijah Woods, takes place in a time period similar to the Dark Ages. Other films, such as "the Chronicles of Narnia" series and the 1982 film "The Sword and the Sorcerer" were based on fantasy and folklore prominent during the Dark Ages in Europe.
"King Arthur," released in 2005, starred Clive Owen as the legendary British leader; there was also a 1980s version of the Arthurian legend titled "Excalibur," featuring Nigel Terry. King Arthur was based on legends and myths that followed the collapse of Rome. Mel Gibson played a heroic Irish warrior named William Wallace, who fought hard against the British before he was finally beheaded for his efforts in the 1997 movie "Braveheart." Heath Ledger starred in a "A Knight's Tale" in 2001, and Martin Lawrence starred in "Black Knight," a 2001 comedy based on the Dark Ages. Hollywood will likely continue to make movies about the Dark Ages as long as people are still wondering about this eventful period in history.