I usually am pretty strict about not watching a sequel to a film before I’ve even seen the first in the series. Once I learned of Jonathan English’s Ironclad movies, however, I broke that ‘rule’ and went straight to the second installment, Ironclad: Battle for Blood.
In Battle for Blood, a personal war between the Scots and English has once again erupted. When his father is slain, young master Hubert (Tom Rhys Harries) is sent to find his cousin Guy (Tom Austen) to aid in retaliation. He pays Guy and a group of misfit mercenaries to return to his father’s castle and defend the village from the vengeful and bloodthirsty Scots.
While Dustin and I have maintained that our objective with Repulsive Reviews is to present you guys with some of the best [and worst] in horror and sci-fi related genre films, I’ve also been known to review non-horror titles. I do, however, always write about films that I think some of you guys will enjoy. The sequel to Ironclad is most certainly one of these films. It is not a horror movie by any means, but it will definitely appeal to some.
I’ve stated in the past that anything XLrator Media releases is guaranteed to be entertaining. Whether it is under their horror branch of “Macabre” films or the action-driven “Turbo,” they always deliver. Ironclad: Battle for Blood is no different. The film is filled with awesome action and tons of blood. Between the severed heads, sawed-off limbs, and mangled throats, there is more than enough gore to go around. The practical effects and splatter work all look awesome throughout the film, and while there is one scene with a less-than-perfect CGI be-heading, I think you will still be pleased by the carnage.
Most of the film was clearly shot using green screens. While I would have loved to see more genuine locations, Jonathan English and his team still managed to pull off a very good-looking production. If you’re a fan of Game of Thrones and the like, you will most likely enjoy what Ironclad has to offer.
The acting was rather good and I have no real complaints. In fact, GoT fans will also be pleased by the appearance of two of the shows cast members who have pretty major roles in this film, Michelle Fairley and Roxanne McKee. Having experience with subject matter similar to that seen in this flick, really seemed to help the authenticity and presentation.
If you like blood-soaked action films, Ironclad: Battle for Blood and is a good choice for your viewing pleasure. You can purchase a copy of the film on Blu-ray or DVD today from XLrator Media.
I give it 3.5 sweet whores out of 5.
This movie wouldn’t be my first choice, but as I red that it’s pretty violent and action-packed, I could give it a chance. Not my first choice because normally I don’t like so much these historical stories with knights and kingdoms and what not. Nice review.