Who’s Bleating now? King Arthur’s Night, The Documentary in Review

John Bolton’s King Arthur’s Night blends documentary filmmaking with a filmed theatrical production, creating an unusual take on the Arthurian legend. While the hybrid approach doesn’t always work, the performances and music make it a memorable tribute.

King Arthur's Night Poster ImageScreening at the VIFF Theatre (Vancouver, BC) July 14 and 18th. Please click here to purchase tickets in advance.

Set against the backdrop of Harrison Hot Springs, British Columbia, John Bolton’s King Arthur’s Night is a bold reimagining of the tale told by Thomas Malory. It offers a meta-look at the play through the lens of preproduction and filmmaking rather than focusing solely on the play itself. While that approach is not altogether bad, the presentation is misleading. When all I want is to see the two separate than apart, I can at least stay fixed to the fiction. The non-fiction can live in it own world.

Because we see bits of filming take place in-betweeen the edited cuts, I’m left begging for just the myth to be told. Perhaps that will change. Until there is an announcement that there is a story only cut, what we have is a work that feels like This Is Spinal Tap!

Continue reading “Who’s Bleating now? King Arthur’s Night, The Documentary in Review”

A Director’s Cut of King Arthur’s Night is Headed To The VIFF This July!

John Bolton’s director’s cut of King Arthur’s Night makes its Vancouver theatrical premiere at VIFF Centre, bringing a wildly imaginative and inclusive take on Camelot to the screen.

King Arthur's Night Poster ImageJuly 10, 11, 12, 14, 18, 2026
Please check the VIFF website for advance tickets.

Who would’ve thought Harrison Hot Springs, British Columbia, could become Camelot? In real life, some say Bigfoot is nearby. But for John Bolton, who made King Arthur’s Night, this alternate take on the legend is something to behold. The director’s cut will make its Vancouver theatrical premiere at VIFF Centre next month.

The original production was created by award-winning playwrights and performers Niall McNeil and Marcus Youssef, directed by James Long, with original music by Veda Hille. The teasers show the labour of love behind this fairy tale, and how everyone can dream. Marketing says this take is not the version of King Arthur folks learned about in school. Some things have changed, and as for who the Lady of the Lake is, well, you’ll have to see it to find out!

Continue reading “A Director’s Cut of King Arthur’s Night is Headed To The VIFF This July!”