For Instacool, the review should give readers a clear verdict on the film, explain what works and what does not, and help them decide whether it is worth watching. The Uprising has received mixed reviews, with critics praising its gritty atmosphere and contemporary themes while questioning its storytelling and Robin Hood connection.

# The Uprising (2026) Review: Andrew Garfield's Brutal Historical Drama Has Power, but Does It Deliver?

Instacool Movies | Movie Review

Andrew Garfield takes on a darker role in The Uprising, a historical action drama that explores poverty, injustice and the consequences of challenging those in power. Directed by Paul Greengrass, the film revisits England's Peasants' Revolt of 1381, turning a defining historical conflict into a story of resistance, survival and political struggle.

But while the film delivers intense action and a relevant message, its storytelling has divided critics.

## Movie Details

- Title: The Uprising

- Year: 2026

- Genre: Historical drama, action, war

- Director: Paul Greengrass

- Lead actor: Andrew Garfield

- Supporting cast: Jamie Bell, Cosmo Jarvis, Tom Hollander, Woody Norman and Thomasin McKenzie

- Runtime: Approximately 128 minutes

- Release: September 2026 in the United States

- Official trailer: https://www.focusfeatures.com/the-uprising

## What Is The Uprising About?

Set in 14th-century England, The Uprising follows a poor farmer known as the Ploughman, played by Andrew Garfield, whose life is shaped by personal loss and the harsh realities of medieval society.

Following the devastation of the Black Death, ordinary people face economic hardship, oppressive taxation and a political system that protects the wealthy. When a new tax intensifies public anger, the Ploughman joins a growing movement demanding justice from King Richard II.

As the rebellion spreads towards London, the movement becomes increasingly dangerous. Its leaders must confront not only the king's forces but also disagreements over what the uprising should achieve.

Inspired by the historical Peasants' Revolt of 1381, the film explores how ordinary people can challenge established power, and how quickly a struggle for justice can become violent.

## Andrew Garfield Leads a Gritty Performance

Garfield brings a troubled, determined quality to the Ploughman. Rather than presenting a conventional action hero, the film portrays a man pushed towards rebellion by grief, exploitation and desperation.

His character provides an emotional entry point into a much larger political conflict.

Jamie Bell and Cosmo Jarvis also contribute strong performances as John Ball and Wat Tyler, historical figures associated with the revolt. Tom Hollander adds menace as Sir Robert Hales, while Woody Norman portrays the young King Richard II.

The ensemble helps establish the contrast between the ordinary people demanding change and the powerful figures determined to preserve their authority.

## What Works Well in The Uprising?

### 1. Its message about inequality

One of the film's strongest elements is its examination of economic inequality and political power.

Although the story takes place centuries ago, its questions about taxation, exploitation and public frustration remain relevant. The film encourages viewers to consider what happens when people feel that the institutions governing them no longer represent their interests.

### 2. Immersive and brutal action

Greengrass uses handheld cinematography and fast-moving sequences to place viewers close to the violence and confusion of the rebellion.

The result is a rough, unsettling atmosphere rather than the polished spectacle associated with some traditional historical epics.

This approach suits the story's subject matter, even if the frequent camera movement may not appeal to every viewer.

### 3. A less familiar historical perspective

Instead of centring its story on a king or a celebrated military commander, the film follows an ordinary man caught in extraordinary circumstances.

That decision gives the story a broader human dimension and draws attention to people whose experiences are often overlooked in accounts of powerful historical figures.

## Where The Uprising Falls Short

### 1. An uneven story

The film's political ambitions sometimes overwhelm its character development. Some figures feel more like symbols of opposing sides than fully developed individuals, which can make it difficult to connect emotionally with every stage of the rebellion.

### 2. The handheld camera style

Greengrass's signature filmmaking style creates urgency, but its persistent movement can also become distracting. Viewers who prefer clear, composed battle scenes may find parts of the film visually exhausting.

### 3. The Robin Hood connection

One of the film's most questionable choices is its attempt to connect the fictional Ploughman to the legend of Robin Hood.

Although the historical revolt and the Robin Hood tradition share themes of resistance to authority, the connection is not firmly established by the historical record. The film's ending has been criticised for making that association feel forced rather than earned.

## Is The Uprising Worth Watching?

If you enjoy historical dramas that examine political conflict, social inequality and rebellion, The Uprising is worth considering.

Andrew Garfield's central performance, the gritty atmosphere and the film's contemporary themes provide reasons to watch. However, those looking for a tightly structured story, richly developed characters or a traditional Robin Hood adventure may be disappointed.

The film is more interested in the anger that fuels a rebellion than in presenting a straightforward tale of heroic triumph.

## Instacool Verdict

Our editorial assessment: 3/5 stars.

The Uprising is an ambitious historical drama with a strong central idea and immersive action, but uneven storytelling and a questionable Robin Hood connection prevent it from fully realising its potential.

It is a worthwhile choice for viewers interested in gritty historical conflicts and stories about ordinary people challenging powerful institutions. It is less convincing as a cohesive character drama.

Final word: A powerful premise, intense action and relevant themes, held back by an uneven narrative.

## Watch the Trailer

Experience the film's atmosphere before deciding whether to watch it.

Official trailer: https://www.focusfeatures.com/the-uprising

Where to watch: Check the official distributor's website for current digital viewing options in your region.

## Join the Conversation

Do you think The Uprising succeeds as a historical drama, or does its attempt to connect the story to Robin Hood weaken the film?

Share your thoughts in the comments, and follow Instacool for more movie reviews, trailers and entertainment updates.

The Uprising (2026) Review: Is Andrew Garfield's Movie Worth Watching?