Blood on the Crown (2021)

Blood on the Crown Poster

How the citizens of Malta fought for independence from Britain in 1919. When the Army was sent to quell the riots and the British government covered up the bloody encounter, more than 100 Maltese were accused of instigating the violence and jailed.

Film Overview
"Blood on the Crown" is a historic drama movie released in 2021. The movie is initially entitled "Just Noise" and is directed by Davide Ferrario. The main cast consists of renowned actors Harvey Keitel, Malcolm McDowell, and Irene Escolar. The movie unravels the less-known, real history of how Maltese people fought for their independence versus Britain in 1919. The primary script was written by Jean Pierre Magro.

Plot Summary
The movie begins by setting the historical context, taking us back to the post-World War 1 duration when Malta was still under British guideline. The citizens are strained with war taxes, leading to serious food lacks and civil unrest. Object trigger as the British empire plans to further exploit Malta's resources without thinking about the needs of the Maltese.

In the midst of this turmoil, the movie's protagonist, Carmelo, is presented, represented by Maltese actor Shaun Dingli. Carmelo is a common and apolitical farmer who is drawn into the uprising when his kid and his nephew Manwel (played by Marc Cabourdin) end up being associated with the protests versus the colonial government. Carmelo's child gets eliminated in the uprising, leading him to question his passive attitude and to fight versus the British oppressors.

Stress Escalate
As rioting crowds rise through Valletta, British soldiers are purchased to open fire, causing the terrible events of June 7, 1919, now called Sette Giugno. Numerous Maltese people are eliminated, enhancing the stress and disobedience in Malta. Carmelo then becomes an instrumental figure in the uprising, turning his sorrow and vendetta for his kid's death into a fight for his country's flexibility.

Turning Point and Climax
As more Maltese citizens sign up with the revolt, the British empire is pinned into a corner. The chaotic disobedience meets the strategic preparation led by Dingli and other freedom fighters. This occasion is a turning point, marking the preliminary decline of British colonial power in Malta.

Historical Significance and Conclusion
"Blood on the Crown" reviews the Maltese uprising, an occasion that substantially contributed to Malta's fight for independence. The occasions of 1919 (Sette Giugno) led to self-government in 1921 and ultimate self-reliance in 1964.

The narrative is given a psychological close showing the cumulative battle, sacrifices, and bravery of the Maltese people. The film ends with a senior Carmelo checking out the tombs of those who combated and passed away throughout the riots, including his son. He is accompanied by a young girl who is presumably his granddaughter, signifying the future generation that will live in an independent Malta thanks to their sacrifices.

Total Impression
"Blood on the Crown" is a gripping representation of a lesser-known historic transformation that played a critical role in forming Malta's future. Its themes of durability, rebellion, and the fight for liberty resonate deeply, making this film an emotional journey through a considerable part of Maltese history. Featuring effective performances, particularly by Dingli and McDowell, the film brings to light Malta's battle for self-reliance and the sacrifices made by brave civilians against colonial power.

Top Cast

  • Malcolm McDowell (small)
    Malcolm McDowell
    Colonel Saville
  • Harvey Keitel (small)
    Harvey Keitel
    General Hunter Blair
  • Tom Prior (small)
    Tom Prior
    Private Love
  • Ian Virgo (small)
    Ian Virgo
    Corporal Bell
  • Erica Muscat
    Maria Abela
  • Benedick Blythe
    Major Ritchie
  • Leeshon Alexander
    Private Colebrooke
  • Christopher Dingli (small)
    Christopher Dingli
    Superintendent Anton Busuttil
  • Mikhail Basmadjian
    Carmelo Abela