Movie Review: Arthur the King, starring Mark Wahlberg, Bear Grylls

Arthur the King is one of those feel-good movies. 

The film, which is based on a true story, tells the remarkable tale of a Mikael Lindnord’s bond with stray dog, Arthur. Lindnord’s 2016 memoir is the basis for the film, starring Mark Wahlberg. 

Wahlberg, as usual, turns in a strong and quite believable performance as Mikael, as he competes in one of the most treacherous and dangerous races I’ve ever heard of.

Mikael was the team captain of Adventure Racing teams, a team that had been racing professionally since 1997.  While Mikael was competing in the race with his team, he discovered Arthur. 

During the race, competitors’ hike, bike, and kayak through the Amazon rainforest for over 430-miles.

In 2014, during the Adventure Racing World Championship, Mikael finds a stray dog and gives him some meatballs. The dog appeared to be badly injured, but continued to follow Mikael’s team the rest of the race. Inspired by King Arthur, Mikael names the dog for his king-like look. 

The team, followed by Arthur the entire way, embarks on this dangerous journey. The film features many tense moments, as the team tries to win the race, as it will be the final chance to win the race for most on the team. 

I don’t want to give a whole lot of the plot away, as it’s fairly basic, but the film itself is well-done and enjoyable. I appreciate the light that it sheds on the importance of helping stray dogs. 

Wahlberg has remained one of my favorite actors to watch, which wasn’t always the case. Seeing the progress the actor has made from a rapper and underwear model to being one of the top names in Hollywood, is quite impressive. From a classic performance in The Departed to very underrated roles in Joe and Father Stu, it’s time Wahlberg gets his props. He’s turned into a pretty amazing actor of substance. 

The film itself is a bit of a departure for Wahlberg. It’s not an action, shoot-em-up type of film. Arthur the King is a heartwarming story of loyalty, friendship and perseverance. It’s a film for the family. Another plus is that it clocks in right at 90-minutes. 

While Wahlberg stars in the film, along with co-stars Nathalie Emmanuel, Simu Liu, Bear Grylls and Ali Suliman, the real star is the amazing dog. The relationship and chemistry Wahlberg has with the dog is undeniable. He looks at Arthur with such love and tenderness. 

While there are bigger and likely more publicized films such as Dune 2 in theatres, if you’re looking for a family film that won’t last hours and hours, Arthur the King is a great option this spring. You will laugh, cry and even cheer throughout the film, as it runs the gamut of emotions. In the end, isn’t that why we go to the movies?

Arthur the King gets an A-.