The 10 Best Modern Retellings of King Arthur in Film & TV

The legend of King Arthur, with its tales of knights, magic, and Camelot, has inspired countless storytellers across centuries. Its themes of honor, betrayal, and destiny remain timeless, sparking fresh takes in modern film and television.

In recent decades, directors and writers have reimagined Arthur’s saga, blending gritty realism, fantasy, or even humor to suit today’s audiences. From epic battles to character-driven dramas, these adaptations bring new life to the myth while staying true to its core. Below, I explore the 10 best modern retellings in film and TV, ranked from least to greatest.

10. The Kid Who Would Be King (2019)

This family-friendly film follows Alex, a young boy who discovers he’s a modern reincarnation of King Arthur after pulling Excalibur from a concrete block. With a group of school friends, he battles the evil Morgana to save Britain.

Directed by Joe Cornish, ‘The Kid Who Would Be King’ stars Louis Ashbourne Serkis as Alex, with Patrick Stewart as an older Merlin. Its mix of modern school life and Arthurian magic makes it a fun, accessible adventure for younger viewers, though it lacks the depth of more adult-focused retellings.

9. A Kid in King Arthur’s Court (1995)

In this lighthearted Disney film, a teen named Calvin Fuller is whisked back to Camelot after an earthquake, where he uses modern knowledge to aid King Arthur’s court. It’s a loose take on Mark Twain’s ‘A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court’.

Starring Thomas Ian Nicholas as Calvin and Joss Ackland as Arthur, the movie leans into comedy and fish-out-of-water charm. Early roles for Kate Winslet and Daniel Craig add intrigue, but its simplistic plot keeps it lower on the list.

8. A Knight in Camelot (1998)

Whoopi Goldberg stars as Vivien Morgan, a scientist transported to Arthur’s court, where her modern wit and tech savvy shake up the medieval world. This TV movie is another playful spin on Twain’s classic novel.

With Michael York as a dignified King Arthur, ‘A Knight in Camelot’ blends humor and heart. Its quirky premise and Goldberg’s charismatic performance make it a standout, though its made-for-TV scope limits its grandeur.

7. Cursed (2020)

This Netflix series flips the Arthurian legend by focusing on Nimue, the future Lady of the Lake, who wields Excalibur in a quest to save her people. Arthur is reimagined as a roguish mercenary.

Katherine Langford leads as Nimue, with Devon Terrell as Arthur. ‘Cursed’ offers a fresh, female-driven perspective with lush visuals, but its single-season run and uneven pacing prevent it from reaching higher ranks.

6. Camelot (2011)

This Starz series explores a young Arthur’s rise to power after his father Uther’s death, diving into political intrigue and romance. It’s a darker, more adult take on the legend, inspired by ‘Le Morte d’Arthur’.

Jamie Campbell Bower plays Arthur, with Joseph Fiennes as a intense Merlin and Eva Green as a cunning Morgan. Despite strong performances, scheduling conflicts led to its cancellation after one season, leaving its potential unfulfilled.

5. Tristan and Isolde (2006)

This film reworks the Arthurian love triangle through the tragic romance of Tristan, a knight, and Isolde, the wife of King Marke. It’s a grounded, emotional story with minimal magic.

James Franco and Sophia Myles shine as the star-crossed lovers, with Rufus Sewell as Marke. ‘Tristan and Isolde’ excels in its intimate drama and stunning Cornish scenery, though its muted tone holds it back from epic status.

4. King Arthur (2004)

This film strips away much of the myth’s magic, presenting Arthur as a Roman soldier defending Britain against Saxon invaders. It aims for historical grit over fantasy.

Clive Owen delivers a stoic Arthur, supported by Keira Knightley as a fierce Guinevere and Ioan Gruffudd as Lancelot. While visually striking, its historical angle feels less Arthurian, landing it just outside the top tier.

3. King Arthur: Legend of the Sword (2017)

Guy Ritchie’s bold reimagining casts Arthur as a streetwise rogue who discovers his destiny through Excalibur. Packed with fast-paced action and gritty style, it’s a unique take on the myth.

Charlie Hunnam brings swagger to Arthur, with Jude Law as a menacing Vortigern. ‘King Arthur: Legend of the Sword’ dazzles with its visuals and energy, but its modern flair and box-office failure keep it from the top spot.

2. Excalibur (1981)

John Boorman’s epic brings the full scope of Arthurian legend to life, from the sword in the stone to the fall of Camelot. It’s a visually stunning blend of magic, romance, and tragedy.

Nigel Terry stars as Arthur, with Nicol Williamson as a memorable Merlin and Helen Mirren as Morgana. ‘Excalibur’ captures the myth’s grandeur and raw emotion, making it a timeless classic, though slightly outshone by one other.

1. Merlin (2008-2012)

This BBC series reimagines Arthur as a young prince guided by a youthful Merlin in a Camelot where magic is outlawed. Its focus on friendship and destiny makes it a heartfelt, enduring favorite.

Bradley James and Colin Morgan shine as Arthur and Merlin, with strong support from Angel Coulby as Guinevere. ‘Merlin’ balances humor, drama, and magic across five seasons, earning its place as the best modern retelling for its emotional depth and character growth.

Which King Arthur film or show is your favorite, or did I miss a hidden gem? Share your thoughts in the comments!