Nick Hamm’s ‘William Tell’ Divides Critics with Bold Retelling of Swiss Legend

The historical epic, starring Claes Bang, explores liberty and resistance but faces criticism for its execution and central performance.

‘William Tell,’ based on Friedrich Schiller’s 1804 play, reimagines the Swiss folk hero’s fight against Austrian oppression in the 14th century.
Director Nick Hamm emphasizes themes of political liberty and the cost of resistance, drawing parallels to modern conflicts like Ukraine and Gaza.
Critics praise the film’s striking cinematography and brutal action sequences but find the narrative bloated and its pacing uneven.
Claes Bang’s portrayal of William Tell has been criticized for lacking the charisma and intensity needed to inspire rebellion.
While supporting performances, particularly Connor Swindells as antagonist Gessler, add energy, the film struggles with underdeveloped characters and clichéd dialogue.