Medieval film refers to films set in Europe during the Middle Ages. Roughly speaking the medieval period lasted from the 5th to the 15th century, but all works don't adhere strictly to these time limits. The presence of castles, swordplay and warfare generally unify the films of the genre however. Frequent portrayals include War and other conflicts, plague, witch hunts and political scheming. Another popular trope is the romantic portrayal of courageous knights saving damsels in distress.
The medieval period has hugely influenced the Fantasy genre in general, especially High Fantasy, where a medieval-like setting is the norm in most works, with technology and values in compliance with the aesthetics of the medieval era. Another genre having a deep affiliation with medievalism is Swashbuckler. Its dashing swordplay antics and gallant chivalry represent a romantization of the Middle Ages, often based on the legend of Robin Hood or the works of Walter Scott.
