Guide Note

A Knight's Tale is a 2001 action- comedy film set in 14th century Europe. The film was directed by Brian Helgeland, and stars Heath Ledger, Shannyn Sossamon, Paul Bettany, Rufus Sewell, and Mark Addy.

A Knight's Tale is about a young peasant squire named William Thatcher (played by Heath Ledger) who takes the place of his recently deceased master on the jousting circuit, which only allows those of noble birth to participate. With his friends at his side, William passes himself off as a knight and falls in love with Lady Jocelyn (played by Shannyn Sossamon). William also makes an enemy out of Count Adhemar of Anjou (played by Rufus Sewell) and must defeat him in the competition.

Fast Facts

1. Starring: Heath Ledger, Shannyn Sossamon, Paul Bettany, Rufus Sewell, and Mark Addy
2. Written and Directed by: Brian Helgeland
3. Produced by: Todd Black, Brian Helgeland and Tim Van Rellim
4. Released: May 11, 2001
5. Rated: PG-13
6. Run time: 132 Minutes
7. The film's title was taken from a story in Geoffrey Chaucer's book The Canterbury Tales
8. Film known for its deliberate use of anachronisms
9. 2,000-3,000 extras were used daily for most of the shoot

1. Heath Ledger plays Sir William Thatcher
2. Mark Addy plays Roland
3. Paul Bettany plays Geoffrey Chaucer
4. Alan Tudyk plays Wat
5. Rufus Sewell plays Count Adhemar of Anjou
6. Shannyn Sossamon plays Lady Jocelyn
7. Laura Fraser plays Kate the Farrier