Chaucers plea on the rights of all men. Paul was very proud of this speech and very disappointed it had to be left out of the original theatrical version.
If you were one of the villagers would you question the word of the most feared and powerful prince of Wales? A man who even without his royal status has never met a foe that he couldn't beat and enjoys jousting for kicks. Much of why he gave William the chance is because he respected him as a fellow fighter.
I also love his next line: "But you also tilt when you should withdraw...and that is knightly too." That line really defines everything about William Thatchers character, about everything he is and stands for.
A real shame Chaucer's speech here was left out of the theatrical release - this ties together the scene and adds an element of humor that's otherwise missing. "Mother? Is my mother here? I'd recognize this cooking anywhere." Almost Shakespearean at points. Glad we got to see it here...
I tend to think that Chaucer's speech at the pillory had been deleted since his role then would have become too prominent. Even without it, Paul Bettany still was the secret star of the movie. As far as I know, "a knight's tale" was recorded in early 2001, and his role promoted him to being cast into the role of Charles Herman in Ron Howard's "a beautiful mind" later the same year.
Bob Jarvis I Remember watching this movie as a child and it did contain this speech (video tape). But on my dvd it's cut out... Sad, cause it's a good speech...
I watched the movie a few days ago and then today I came across this. Its a beautiful speech can't beleive they cut this out. Is there ny other scene that was cut out from the theatrical release?
this video popup in my recommended after i had rewatched the movie with a bunch of friends on youtube via our discord while taking a break from our ongoing D&D game and our bard said the exact same thing and we all cracked up laughing at it due to the fact that out of the entire part he almost always gets bad roles but in our last adventure before watching this every role of his for the entire two hrs were nat 20s
Marian: How is it, that a once-arrogant young nobleman has found contentment, living rough with the salt of the earth? Robin of Locksley: I've seen knights in armor panic at the first hint of battle. And I've seen the lowliest, unarmed squire pull a spear from his own body, to defend a dying horse. Nobility is not a birthright. It's defined by one's actions.
Chaucer winning the crowd over at first with the “Mother?” line is so damn brilliant. Turns them instantly from angry to chuckling so they’ll hear him out. One of my all-time favorite movies and can’t believe I’m just now seeing this bit! Great, great scene
As much as I adore this movie, I regret that they cut Chaucer's monologue. It brings so much more weight to Edward's line "Your men love you. If I knew nothing else about you, that would be enough".
@@CaptainSeato My one criticism of this film has always been that it runs a little too long for what it is but, yeah, for the love of God, don't cut _this._ Sadly, it was produced just a tiny bit too early for The Lord of the Rings trilogy to show Hollywood that this level of earnestness isn't just saleable - it can make you boatloads of cash and sweep the Oscars at the same time. If it had been stuck in post-production for a couple of years... I mean, we mightn't have got it at all but, if we had, this scene would definitely have been included.
I always liked to imagine that from this day forward William was Edwards most loyal, trusted and capable companion. Always the man he turned to first. Always on his right. If you had issue with Edward you had issue with William first.
Honestly, the closest thing I have to a criticism of this movie is that she was underutilised but was clearly _very_ capable. It's barely a criticism, though, because you wouldn't want to throw the pacing off.
@@PineappolisKate may have been underutilized but she DID leave her mark in the Story and did solidify herself as one of William's Crew. Edit: Hell! It was the Armor KATE made that helped William get so far!!
@@ajaxjohnson7999 Oh, absolutely. As a character, she was memorable and important even with relatively little screen time and, yeah, it's yet another layer to a film that managed to be incredibly silly, incredibly moving and at times downright inspirational without feeling like it had a tone problem that without even having her own smithy, she invented a new type of steel that allowed William's armour to be about half the weight of everyone else's while turning blows even better. ...and put the Nike logo on it. I don't think there's another film in existence I'd have let away with that without at least an eye-roll.
Definitely should have kept this scene in. The pacing just works so much better with it in. When Edward just appears and Knights him, it makes the crowd feel really shallow. Like their only cheering because "Hey, he was Knighted so it's okay now." Jeff appealing to the crowd makes things fit together better.
I dont know or care if this stuff is cheesy. It gives me the feels. I cry too when will's blind dad realizes the man he's talking with is his son. That's a beautiful moment.
Honestly, I think this scene is _way_ too well-acted and written to be called cheesy (and this is from someone who friggin' loves cheese. Independence Day was my favourite film for a fair chunk of my life). Hollywood just doesn't seem to know the difference between "cheesy" and "earnest," which I suspect is why it was cut.
I always struggle to hold back the tears whenever I hear it. He says "for he is like gold, to me" and I'm biting my nails, fiddling with my hair, anything to keep from opening up like a tap. But now his words here, in context of the tragedy of Heath Ledger's death, and how Paul Bettany truly felt and feels about Heath as a person, are far more powerful. It also makes it much harder to watch too.
While a very moving scene, if they had left this scene in the movie, then would have been Chaucer who saved William and not the Prince. The crowd would have been calmed by Chaucer, and not the Prince. And for the story, it needed to be the Prince that saved William.
I disagree. The whole point of the movie is that someone from a "lesser" background can make it. Chaucer convincing the crowd to stop harassing William fits that theme better. And the Prince does still save William in the end. While Chaucer turns the crowd for him, he has still impersonated a noble and is still going to be punished for it until the Prince intervenes.
Preceded by "my personal historians." The crowd isn't stupid. It's probably clear to some that his highness is playing a fast one, but the line you quote then also is a veiled command. "Don't question it." That also was probably a flip off to Count Ademar. 😁
"Your men love you. If I knew nothing else about you, that would be enough." What a wonderful way to say I have taken your measure, and you are as noble as I in truth, and I will raise you up to a better position in life.
And with a relatively simple act, the Prince had a loyal Knight that would be by his side always. I love this scene, and the duty and honor shown in it.
This should be in the movies, it drive home the most important narative of the movie. William showed his mercy to both Chaucer and Edward, going well over and beyond to do so... And when at his direst, the two of them come to rescue...
Chaucer .,.broken and naked at his lowest of the low... gave him a job and a profile role... Prince Edward... could have been smashed and humiliated during the tournament... but let him bow out with honor.... Heart of Gold.
Best scene of the movie. I believe this scene made the whole point of the movie itself. 4:38 "You also tilt when you should withdraw and that is knightly too". -- goosebumps !
"Now - if I may repay the kindness you once showed me....take a knee..." To me, the way Edward delivered those words; his humility, his sincere heartfelt appreciation, combined with his body language, followed by him knighting William, along with his challenged invitation - this is the best scene in the entire movie, and it made the movie for me. I have watched this scene over a hundred times, and it gives me a rush... every - single - time !!! I cheer for Sir William every time I watch him get knighted - William **finally** got his dream!!! 👍😉👍
@@petesevern7638 It's ridiculous to think there's a scene in the movie better than William reuniting with his father but, yep, there is - and it's this one. Bettany puts his heart and soul into it, Purefoy radiates his natural presence but tempers it with warmth and humility as you say, Ledger's reaction shots are pure, subtle class and everyone else embodies their characters perfectly. The film could have been _way_ more of a mess than it was but, well... it has those two scenes; if I liked nothing else about it, that would be enough - but it's also fun when it could have been plodding and that is awesome too. [Sorry, couldn't resist.]
@@Pineappolis , Pete Severn It's ridiculous to think there's a scene in the movie better than William reuniting with his father" I've thought your statement over a bit, and considering that my own father has passed over to the other side - I gotta agree with you! ♥️ "..but, yep, there is - and it's this one. Bettany puts his heart and soul into it, Purefoy radiates his natural presence but tempers it with warmth and humility as you say, Ledger's reaction shots are pure, subtle class and everyone else embodies their characters perfectly. The film could have been way more of a mess than it was but, well... it has those two scenes; if I liked nothing else about it, that would be enough - but it's also fun when it could have been plodding and that is awesome too. [Sorry, couldn't resist.]" Agree with everything you said, and, yeahhhhh - I caught your little 'play-on-words' at the end...lol. Cute! 😋👍
That this scene did no make the final cut still baffles me to this day. Paul Bettany delivered such a powerful performance and message in these few minutes. IMO this scene was and is one of the most powerful moments in the entire movie.
It would have taken away from the Prince’s pardoning of him. There is something to be said to be swayed from a speech by Chaucer vs the Prince showing up and owning the crowd.
@@pdfbt40 yes, this long Paul Bettany speech is not in any version i've ever seen of this movie. and I've seen it a lot. one of my fav movies. Paul Bettany is a proper Hollywood gem.
Paul Bethany kinda owns the whole movie. Don't get me wrong, Heath is a great actor but his role in this movie although being the lead is nowhere near as outstanding as Bethany's. The way he made the wrestling-like introductions work is pure magic.
I have watched this film about a thirty times and I never knew about this scene. Incredible acting! How did this not make the final cut? I can understand they may not have wanted Bettany's character to have too many solo scenes, but it actually helps the movie flow. I always felt that something was missing because the crowd went from wanting him to be killed to cheering for him. I thought they were just huge bandwagon jousting fans haha
*replying 3 years later* From what I've heard it was due to directors feeling Chaucer swaying the crowd took away some impact/gravity from the princes pardon and knighting moment and made it feel different from the impact they wanted. That being said I always felt watching it over and over as a kid that the prince *could* have gone either way on Will's fate knowing how royalty kept closed circles, but the movie set it up as inevitable that it would be a kindness repaid for a kindness shown. The Prince knew Will was potentially worth it, and I feel this speech makes sense to keep because it shows who Will was to the people who knew him best and decided the outcome for the Prince. Plus this scene and speech is LIKE GOLD. To me. Bettany killed every scene, and this would have been amazing to see the first time I saw it.
If you have a heart of Gold... don't matter how Joker crazy you are.... Your people's gonna stand by you and be your shield ... " You want to get to him you're going to have to go through me"
I love Williams humility when he told Roland to leave and let the crowd have me.... Even at his lowest of the lows he's willing to take what is being dished out to him even though it's unfair.... This man's character and integrity to what he opposed is still true at his rock bottom.... That's why he was raised up because of his nobility.... I'm going through some things in life I feel like I'm at my lowest of the low ...... This scene inspires me so much... because people remind me it's not what's on the outside.... It's the heart of Gold that I show to people that makes ME valuable...... I doubt it but they keep reminding me about it..... My most favorite inspirational scene.
+Hugo G It didn't make it because it showed the Prince while panning across the crowd, which would have been an obvious spoiler of what was going to happen.
+==Maverick== As said, Paul was really proud of this scene. In interviews he says he was told personally by the director that it had to be dropped because of running time. If it was a 'spoiler' it would have had to be cut from the DVD version.
+==Maverick== Also, IIRC, the editors wanted the Prince's introduction in this scene and releasing of William to have a greater impact on the scene. Basically, they didn't want Chaucer to steal the entire scene. lol.
I thought I was going mad there for a second, I just rewatched a knight's tale on netflix and this scene was missing, I was like wtf, did l imagine an entire Chaucer speech?
How odd, everyone saying this scene isn't in the film. I had no idea it was left out of certain productions. Just checked and my DVD is the 'extended cut'. Very glad it is as I adore this scene. Brings tears to my eyes each time I watched it. One of my all time favourite films, great actors and a really fun mix of modern and old. And yes, RIP Heath.
@@whoguardstheguardians7848 after Adhemar withdrew in the fight against Prince Edward, he was sent to the Crusades and didn't get to compete again until the world cup. It wouldn't surprise me if that was partially Edward's doing
James Purefoy is an absolute top-drawer actor but I'm honestly not sure he's ever been more charismatic in any role than he was in this scene. Every word he says is iconic.
The speech is really heartfelt and Paul Bettany as Chaucer is always a showstopper, but it might have been for the best that it was cut. The way its edited in the final film where Chaucer, who up to that point had always been able to get the people on their side, tries but fails to get through to them there really helped to ramp up the tension and it ultimately kind of distracts from the impact of the payoff for Black Prince of Wales they were building to in the story. Not to mention that Chaucer still has his big final moment to shine introducing Willam rather than Ulrich as a knight during the final joust in a scenario which made the most sense for his character.
I've given several reasons in the comments as to why I don't think it should have been cut but you make a good point with the idea that you have that feeling of rising tension when even Chaucer words, their ace in the hole, can't get it done. That's an astute point, for sure.
One of my favorite movies. However after many conversations with others and looking at the comments section of this clip most people don't realize the importance of the line "Your men love you. If I knew nothing else about you it would be enough."
This movie is amazing! The actors all rocked and fit their parts perfectly and it had me laughing the whole way though out! It also was one of the first times I really bonded with my Unkie Dave and if something this fabulous can bring a close family even closer then that just makes it 1000X better x
Great scene as the true narrator of the original story this really showcases Chaucer's ability to tell a story that made this modern remake a possibility.
This is one of my top 3 favorite movies of all time. I've watched it dozens of times and have never seen this speech. After seeing it for the first time, I'm upset it was removed from the theatrical release.
Cry. Every time. Relate SO much. Coming from nothing. Wanting to be a lawyer. All the struggles. People trying to prevent it form happening. I know I will be weeping throughout the ENTIRE ceremony when I earn my diploma from law school.
I remember studying for an exam in college until early morning around 2am then this movie came up, my mind fought whether to get that sleep or watch this movie til 4am...It's one of my fave films after that and still is today.
I've never seen this! wow, what a moment. definitely should've been left in. makes so much more sense this way (why would the crowd that had been booing and throwing stuff be suddenly cheering when Will was knighted?), but to hear his friends' love for so eloquently expressed through Geoff... *sniff* don't care what anybody says, Geoff's and the prince's respective speeches work beautifully together. first one won their hearts, second made it legal where not a certain count is gonna challenge it :)
That’s a great point. With Chaucer’s speech it does make more sense for the crowd to cheer for William being knighted. In the theatrical logic dictates that the crowd was calmed because they were just taken by surprise that the prince was there not because they gained a sense of empathy from Chaucer’s speech.
That reaction is exactly why it had to be cut out. The movie was always cynical about social class status and celebrity. The idea that the crowd could have had its mind genuinely changed regarding the true nature of nobility by an earnest speech doesn't fit with the movie's message, but the idea that the fickle crowd would do a 180 just because an important celebrity told them to does fit.
Paul Bettany’s passion really shows through. We all should only hope to have that friend that will speak so fervently about us, but should also hope to be the kind of friend that would compel them to do so
Genre-Fluid Metal Plebtard Dude it means I beat the French at 16 and again at 18 capturing there king and no man has beaten me in battle do you really want to go there
I really love this scene. it's a shame that it wasn't added in the theatrical movie. This is my opinion but I think it didn't really make sense with Chaucer's speech cut out because of how it portrayed the villagers as hating Will but then loving him. With Chaucer's speech however it sort of softens the villagers before Will is knighted.
Whilst it is very good, I still kind of prefer the theatrical edit because it made it that even Chaucer couldn't get them out of the predicament. As for the crowd liking William again fairly instantaneous, it could be argued that besides the Black Prince being liked by the people, its also a case of it looking bad form if they didn't cheer for something he labelled as 'beyond contestation' and to an extent cutting it out adds further weight to Chaucer's introduction/time waste to assist the others fixing William up with him again pointing out how William was born a stones throw from the stadium and son of the local thatcher and as such should cheer for him rather than some foreigner whom clearly isn't liked by many especially not Prince Edward whom clearly wanted to see Count Adhemar knocked down a peg or two.
The Joker is protected by Robert Baratheon, and Vision delivers a moving speech. A.K.A. The Joker has friends, Robert Baratheon cares for someone other than himself and Vision has emotions.
the unfortunate reality is that it's way too word-heavy for the audience it's attracted. if it was left in, no doubt its cult following would have been far, far greater.
Although, he proved that hes a damn good swordsmen already. Heck good enough that despite doing the sword in between jousts he still won against knights who in all likelihood saw combat :) I don't see will losing in very many engagements honestly.
Brisdad53 no you were not required to march but a man who could fight in the melee and beat the Black Prince of Wales in the lists would have no fear of death on the field and I wouldn’t be surprised if the black prince would have employed him in his personal retinue men didn’t got to war at this point because they owned knight service they went for money a good archer could retire a rich man after 1 campaign and after many could secure a title land and inheritance for his family (well he could at least become a knight)
I always wanted.to see william go to war with the prince and become one of his most loyal.knights. in these.days a prince.was surrounded by backstabbing cut throats. A true friend is always.more preciois than Gold
I'm sort of in two minds about Geoff's speech being cut. On the one hand, it's a wonderful piece of writing and performance, and it helps explain why the crowd turned so quickly from throwing things at him to cheering for his knighthood. On the other, making a point about how nobility comes from actions rather from birth and following it up with Prince Edward knighting Will because of a claim of noble lineage (however false it's understood to be) sends a strange sort of mixed message.
that double message is the whole point, and is contained in the final edit - prince edward is knighting him based on merit and using corrupt social norms as a pretext.
I love this movie, saw it in the theater when it came out, have watched it a dozen times on video and can watch it any time I want on google but here I am loving the clips of it. That's how much fun and heroic that movie is.
I can see why it was cut. His speech was about how even though he was poor, his heart is royal. Then the prince comes in, and is like "He is royal and thats all that matters"
did you skip the first half of the prince's speech? his whole point is that merit is what matters and the second half of his speech is just the pretext required to negotiate a corrupt society. Did you really think the prince actually found that william had noble blood, or was it obvious that he was lying through his teeth?
Have you not heard the story? He was literally told his career was dead, right before Joss called him and asked him to play Jarvis. And before he was in the MCU? Knight's Tale, The Da Vinci Code, and Firewall are the only three movies I remember him being in.
@@andystuckey2561 Bettany. 😉 And I hope you're right. It breaks my hard that he's treated like a mediocre talented mid-card actor, when he actually is one of the very best in his craft.
@@andystuckey2561 See, old, too. Just noticed that I typed hard instead of heart. Or did my phone decide? Oh, I dunno. I just know that Paul is absolutely incredible.
Its shameful on Hollywood to cut out such a great piece within a scene. This one part goes right to the heartbeat of the whole movie. It makes one think how many movies have been ruined or destroyed on the cutting room floor. Paul Bettany is a fabulous actor and thus was one of his greatest scenes in my opinion. To have it cut out likely diminished his ability to get not only an award but better acting jobs. This is what makes me hate what those in power in Hollywood are doing.
Why the fuck did they leave out this scene? I actually felt like the scene was missing something when I watched this on netflix. As it is, it makes the townspeople to be complete assholes. The way they just start being his best fans again after throwing shit at him the second they found out he was actually "royalty" always rubbed me the wrong way. It makes them out to be really incredibly shallow - maybe thats how it would have been historically, but I always felt this film tried to promote a heartwarming message in favour of historical accuracy. This speech makes them see what they're doing wrong before the prince steps in, and further enforces what he says to Will before he has him released. Not to mention how touching and how great Paul Bethany's performance is here. They should not have left this scene out.
"This is my word. And as such, is beyond contestation."
What a bad-ass way to say "because I said so".
No doubt 😎
+Jdiggy77 Well back at the time the royal family was believed to be chosen by God to rule as, as such, were infallible.
That and even now certain politicians can do things like this. But only on special circumstances.
Fermion I think it also indicates the Black Prince is lying, and totally pulled it out of his ass.
If you were one of the villagers would you question the word of the most feared and powerful prince of Wales? A man who even without his royal status has never met a foe that he couldn't beat and enjoys jousting for kicks. Much of why he gave William the chance is because he respected him as a fellow fighter.
"Your men love you. And if I knew nothing else about you, that would be enough"
My favorite line of Edward
Aye, I forget the actors name but he played a damn fine Plantagenet prince.
@@countOfHenneberg you are from scotland?
@@countOfHenneberg James Purefoy
I so agree
I also love his next line: "But you also tilt when you should withdraw...and that is knightly too." That line really defines everything about William Thatchers character, about everything he is and stands for.
When the joker, the vision, Steve the pirate, and Robert Baratheon are together, they are unbeatable.
No way that is Robert!!!! Thanks for the info,it slipped past me.
They are wise and they know shit lol
Nono, thats a leaf on the wind, Hoban Washburne.
Don’t forget Solomon Kane’s in there too
Dont forget Lydia lol
A real shame Chaucer's speech here was left out of the theatrical release - this ties together the scene and adds an element of humor that's otherwise missing. "Mother? Is my mother here? I'd recognize this cooking anywhere." Almost Shakespearean at points. Glad we got to see it here...
Shakespeare doesn't have shit on chaucer
I tend to think that Chaucer's speech at the pillory had been deleted since his role then would have become too prominent. Even without it, Paul Bettany still was the secret star of the movie. As far as I know, "a knight's tale" was recorded in early 2001, and his role promoted him to being cast into the role of Charles Herman in Ron Howard's "a beautiful mind" later the same year.
Bob Jarvis I Remember watching this movie as a child and it did contain this speech (video tape). But on my dvd it's cut out... Sad, cause it's a good speech...
I watched the movie a few days ago and then today I came across this. Its a beautiful speech can't beleive they cut this out. Is there ny other scene that was cut out from the theatrical release?
@@jango8472 I love Shakespeare but you're absolutely right
I love it when the bard gets a successful charisma roll.
"Why is it every time I find myself in a pile off shite, it's you shoveling it"
Natural 20
this video popup in my recommended after i had rewatched the movie with a bunch of friends on youtube via our discord while taking a break from our ongoing D&D game and our bard said the exact same thing and we all cracked up laughing at it due to the fact that out of the entire part he almost always gets bad roles but in our last adventure before watching this every role of his for the entire two hrs were nat 20s
Let’s hope this happens in the D&D: Honor amongst thieves movie
Then there's your Crown Prince who's rocking and CHA 18 without as much as an Eagle's Splendour on him.
Marian:
How is it, that a once-arrogant young nobleman has found contentment, living rough with the salt of the earth?
Robin of Locksley:
I've seen knights in armor panic at the first hint of battle. And I've seen the lowliest, unarmed squire pull a spear from his own body, to defend a dying horse. Nobility is not a birthright. It's defined by one's actions.
where was that quote from exactly?
@@piwhip9023 Robin Hood Prince of Thieves 1991 with Kevin Costner
.
For one man defending his home is worth a hundred knights.
The crusades taught me that
Sadly quite a few of nobility were little more than highborn thieves
Great, underrated movie.
"For he is like gold.. to me". Such a beautiful portrayal of a friend's love.
so do i bro
"God love you William and so do I " Gets me in the feels all the time.
😊😊I agree 👍 this part of this story was very sweet 😢 very sweet 😔 very sweet 😊
Chaucer winning the crowd over at first with the “Mother?” line is so damn brilliant. Turns them instantly from angry to chuckling so they’ll hear him out. One of my all-time favorite movies and can’t believe I’m just now seeing this bit! Great, great scene
As much as I adore this movie, I regret that they cut Chaucer's monologue. It brings so much more weight to Edward's line "Your men love you. If I knew nothing else about you, that would be enough".
That the monologue should've been included, is BEYOND CONTESTATION :v
@@CaptainSeato My one criticism of this film has always been that it runs a little too long for what it is but, yeah, for the love of God, don't cut _this._ Sadly, it was produced just a tiny bit too early for The Lord of the Rings trilogy to show Hollywood that this level of earnestness isn't just saleable - it can make you boatloads of cash and sweep the Oscars at the same time. If it had been stuck in post-production for a couple of years... I mean, we mightn't have got it at all but, if we had, this scene would definitely have been included.
"You have been weighed. You have been measured. And you have been found, to be a goddamn badass. Welcome to knighthood, brother."
I always liked to imagine that from this day forward William was Edwards most loyal, trusted and capable companion. Always the man he turned to first. Always on his right.
If you had issue with Edward you had issue with William first.
Brilliant
Loyalty is reciprocal as is seen here.
No doubt about that scenario.
That would be a good preface for a sequel.
Kate was ready to throw down at even the prince! Look at her posture. Such great acting. "one wrong move, buster! My hammer to your skull"
Honestly, the closest thing I have to a criticism of this movie is that she was underutilised but was clearly _very_ capable. It's barely a criticism, though, because you wouldn't want to throw the pacing off.
@@PineappolisKate may have been underutilized but she DID leave her mark in the Story and did solidify herself as one of William's Crew.
Edit: Hell! It was the Armor KATE made that helped William get so far!!
@@ajaxjohnson7999 Oh, absolutely. As a character, she was memorable and important even with relatively little screen time and, yeah, it's yet another layer to a film that managed to be incredibly silly, incredibly moving and at times downright inspirational without feeling like it had a tone problem that without even having her own smithy, she invented a new type of steel that allowed William's armour to be about half the weight of everyone else's while turning blows even better.
...and put the Nike logo on it. I don't think there's another film in existence I'd have let away with that without at least an eye-roll.
Definitely should have kept this scene in. The pacing just works so much better with it in. When Edward just appears and Knights him, it makes the crowd feel really shallow. Like their only cheering because "Hey, he was Knighted so it's okay now."
Jeff appealing to the crowd makes things fit together better.
I dont know or care if this stuff is cheesy. It gives me the feels. I cry too when will's blind dad realizes the man he's talking with is his son. That's a beautiful moment.
Honestly, I think this scene is _way_ too well-acted and written to be called cheesy (and this is from someone who friggin' loves cheese. Independence Day was my favourite film for a fair chunk of my life). Hollywood just doesn't seem to know the difference between "cheesy" and "earnest," which I suspect is why it was cut.
I think this was a very underrated movie. It has a lot of great qualities to it. Too bad Heath is gone. RIP.
Who's the genius that thought cutting this was a good idea? I love this speech so much
It's a shame this isn't in the theatrical version. It's incredibly touching.
Kristian Brandt I thought the same - Paul Bettany’s speech should have been left in. Then again, everything should have more Paul Bettany if possible.
I always struggle to hold back the tears whenever I hear it. He says "for he is like gold, to me" and I'm biting my nails, fiddling with my hair, anything to keep from opening up like a tap. But now his words here, in context of the tragedy of Heath Ledger's death, and how Paul Bettany truly felt and feels about Heath as a person, are far more powerful. It also makes it much harder to watch too.
I had no idea this cut existed
While a very moving scene, if they had left this scene in the movie, then would have been Chaucer who saved William and not the Prince. The crowd would have been calmed by Chaucer, and not the Prince. And for the story, it needed to be the Prince that saved William.
I disagree. The whole point of the movie is that someone from a "lesser" background can make it. Chaucer convincing the crowd to stop harassing William fits that theme better. And the Prince does still save William in the end. While Chaucer turns the crowd for him, he has still impersonated a noble and is still going to be punished for it until the Prince intervenes.
5:18 “This is my word, and as such, is beyond contestation.”
Best line in the entire movie.
Preceded by "my personal historians." The crowd isn't stupid. It's probably clear to some that his highness is playing a fast one, but the line you quote then also is a veiled command. "Don't question it."
That also was probably a flip off to Count Ademar. 😁
Now that was power
I love the words "beyond contestation" - it's a shame that English has tended to become a simpler language.
Did you hear the crowds reactions lol.
"Your men love you. If I knew nothing else about you, that would be enough." What a wonderful way to say I have taken your measure, and you are as noble as I in truth, and I will raise you up to a better position in life.
"He is like gold, to me"
COME ON MAN YOURE MASHING MY FEELS BUTTON 😭😭😭😭
And with a relatively simple act, the Prince had a loyal Knight that would be by his side always. I love this scene, and the duty and honor shown in it.
This movie is such a treasure. Incredibly cheesy yet moving beyond words at times.
This should be in the movies, it drive home the most important narative of the movie. William showed his mercy to both Chaucer and Edward, going well over and beyond to do so... And when at his direst, the two of them come to rescue...
I saw it in the movie. No idea why everyone is going on that it wasn’t in there.
Chaucer .,.broken and naked at his lowest of the low... gave him a job and a profile role...
Prince Edward... could have been smashed and humiliated during the tournament... but let him bow out with honor....
Heart of Gold.
I see Joker, Vision, Robert Baratheon and Steve the Pirate in one scene
You took a good stab it. We'll call it a wash...
Steve the Pirate? You're just going to ignore the fact that you're speaking about Wash from Firefly?
@@Xygoth Arrrrh Grrrh
Who's Steve The Pirate?
@@lookinforhumanz7640 th-cam.com/video/NWEHqKajH6o/w-d-xo.html
Best scene of the movie. I believe this scene made the whole point of the movie itself.
4:38 "You also tilt when you should withdraw and that is knightly too". -- goosebumps !
"Now - if I may repay the kindness you once showed me....take a knee..."
To me, the way Edward delivered those words; his humility, his sincere heartfelt appreciation, combined with his body language, followed by him knighting William, along with his challenged invitation - this is the best scene in the entire movie, and it made the movie for me. I have watched this scene over a hundred times, and it gives me a rush... every - single - time !!!
I cheer for Sir William every time I watch him get knighted - William **finally** got his dream!!!
👍😉👍
@@petesevern7638 Yes, he finally changed his stars !
@@Ferruccio_Guicciardi kiddos to you. I couldn't have said that better myself. 🤟😁👍
@@petesevern7638 It's ridiculous to think there's a scene in the movie better than William reuniting with his father but, yep, there is - and it's this one. Bettany puts his heart and soul into it, Purefoy radiates his natural presence but tempers it with warmth and humility as you say, Ledger's reaction shots are pure, subtle class and everyone else embodies their characters perfectly. The film could have been _way_ more of a mess than it was but, well... it has those two scenes; if I liked nothing else about it, that would be enough - but it's also fun when it could have been plodding and that is awesome too.
[Sorry, couldn't resist.]
@@Pineappolis , Pete Severn It's ridiculous to think there's a scene in the movie better than William reuniting with his father"
I've thought your statement over a bit, and considering that my own father has passed over to the other side - I gotta agree with you! ♥️
"..but, yep, there is - and it's this one. Bettany puts his heart and soul into it, Purefoy radiates his natural presence but tempers it with warmth and humility as you say, Ledger's reaction shots are pure, subtle class and everyone else embodies their characters perfectly. The film could have been way more of a mess than it was but, well... it has those two scenes; if I liked nothing else about it, that would be enough - but it's also fun when it could have been plodding and that is awesome too. [Sorry, couldn't resist.]"
Agree with everything you said, and, yeahhhhh - I caught your little 'play-on-words' at the end...lol. Cute! 😋👍
Earlier in the movie:
"God love ya William..."
"I know, I know, cuz no one else will!"
This scene:
"God love ya William..... so do I."
People look at Paul Bettany and see Vision, I look at him and see "the prodigal room mate returns!"
Peter Colt (Wimbledon) was another cool character...
@@cargo71 Master and Commander too! Played the doc really well. Another Crowe/Bettany team up so I am pretty biased ha!
I see Dustfinger
Your men love you, if I knew nothing else about you that would be enough.
my favorite line
I love this line... along with his bad ass version because I said so.
But you also tilt when you should withdraw; and that is knightly, too. 😎
WHY THE HELL DIDN'T THEY LEAVE THIS SCENE IN THE MOVIE?!?! This is an amazing performance by Paul Bettany.
Length of the movie is usually kept short.
That this scene did no make the final cut still baffles me to this day.
Paul Bettany delivered such a powerful performance and message in these few minutes. IMO this scene was
and is one of the most powerful moments in the entire movie.
It would have taken away from the Prince’s pardoning of him. There is something to be said to be swayed from a speech by Chaucer vs the Prince showing up and owning the crowd.
So that Paul Bettany. He's a pretty good actor, huh?
Paul Bethany so own this scene
They actually showed the theatrical version (without this speech) on TV last week!!
He owns the whole film.
@@pdfbt40 yes, this long Paul Bettany speech is not in any version i've ever seen of this movie. and I've seen it a lot. one of my fav movies. Paul Bettany is a proper Hollywood gem.
Paul owns any scene he is in
Paul Bethany kinda owns the whole movie. Don't get me wrong, Heath is a great actor but his role in this movie although being the lead is nowhere near as outstanding as Bethany's. The way he made the wrestling-like introductions work is pure magic.
I have watched this film about a thirty times and I never knew about this scene. Incredible acting! How did this not make the final cut? I can understand they may not have wanted Bettany's character to have too many solo scenes, but it actually helps the movie flow. I always felt that something was missing because the crowd went from wanting him to be killed to cheering for him. I thought they were just huge bandwagon jousting fans haha
Tbh I always watch the director's cut
Man, I don’t know but I’ve been in Australia and every single movie I’ve watched have diferents scene in many parts. 🤷🏻♂️
*replying 3 years later*
From what I've heard it was due to directors feeling Chaucer swaying the crowd took away some impact/gravity from the princes pardon and knighting moment and made it feel different from the impact they wanted.
That being said I always felt watching it over and over as a kid that the prince *could* have gone either way on Will's fate knowing how royalty kept closed circles, but the movie set it up as inevitable that it would be a kindness repaid for a kindness shown. The Prince knew Will was potentially worth it, and I feel this speech makes sense to keep because it shows who Will was to the people who knew him best and decided the outcome for the Prince. Plus this scene and speech is LIKE GOLD. To me. Bettany killed every scene, and this would have been amazing to see the first time I saw it.
it was in the movie
@@keets0 You’re all good. I agree
Vision, Robert Baratheon, Hoban Washburne and Lydia Rodarte-Quayle defend The Joker from a violent crowd
If you have a heart of Gold... don't matter how Joker crazy you are....
Your people's gonna stand by you and be your shield ... " You want to get to him you're going to have to go through me"
One of the greatest moments of redemption and recognition ever put to film.
I love Williams humility when he told Roland to leave and let the crowd have me.... Even at his lowest of the lows he's willing to take what is being dished out to him even though it's unfair.... This man's character and integrity to what he opposed is still true at his rock bottom.... That's why he was raised up because of his nobility....
I'm going through some things in life I feel like I'm at my lowest of the low ...... This scene inspires me so much... because people remind me it's not what's on the outside.... It's the heart of Gold that I show to people that makes ME valuable...... I doubt it but they keep reminding me about it.....
My most favorite inspirational scene.
Always tear up when Chaucer says he is like gold... to me... absolutely amazing :’)
How did this not make the final film. Was epic
+Hugo G It didn't make it because it showed the Prince while panning across the crowd, which would have been an obvious spoiler of what was going to happen.
+==Maverick==
As said, Paul was really proud of this scene. In interviews he says he was told personally by the director that it had to be dropped because of running time.
If it was a 'spoiler' it would have had to be cut from the DVD version.
+==Maverick== Also, IIRC, the editors wanted the Prince's introduction in this scene and releasing of William to have a greater impact on the scene. Basically, they didn't want Chaucer to steal the entire scene. lol.
+Jack Daone whoever thought that was a load of crap. Bethany's scene does not take from Purfoys speech at all!
It kinda does, though, because it means that Chaucer was the one who pacified the crowd and not the Black Prince, y'know?
Was once my favorite movie as a kid, NEVER knew Chaucer had more to say.
I thought I was going mad there for a second, I just rewatched a knight's tale on netflix and this scene was missing, I was like wtf, did l imagine an entire Chaucer speech?
How odd, everyone saying this scene isn't in the film. I had no idea it was left out of certain productions. Just checked and my DVD is the 'extended cut'. Very glad it is as I adore this scene. Brings tears to my eyes each time I watched it. One of my all time favourite films, great actors and a really fun mix of modern and old. And yes, RIP Heath.
I think Prince Edward wanted to see Adhemar lose, a lot.
He did pull him out of every tournament since his withdrawal until this one sooooo
@@stevenreadicker2777 what do you mean?
@@whoguardstheguardians7848 after Adhemar withdrew in the fight against Prince Edward, he was sent to the Crusades and didn't get to compete again until the world cup. It wouldn't surprise me if that was partially Edward's doing
probably did
@@stevenreadicker2777 Brilliant..
5:20 " This is my word... and such is beyond contestation!" Now... goosebumps!
James Purefoy is an absolute top-drawer actor but I'm honestly not sure he's ever been more charismatic in any role than he was in this scene. Every word he says is iconic.
And when he holds up his hand for silence. Such a badass
when marc antony says its beyond contestation you dont question it
Snows always melt
The speech is really heartfelt and Paul Bettany as Chaucer is always a showstopper, but it might have been for the best that it was cut. The way its edited in the final film where Chaucer, who up to that point had always been able to get the people on their side, tries but fails to get through to them there really helped to ramp up the tension and it ultimately kind of distracts from the impact of the payoff for Black Prince of Wales they were building to in the story. Not to mention that Chaucer still has his big final moment to shine introducing Willam rather than Ulrich as a knight during the final joust in a scenario which made the most sense for his character.
I've given several reasons in the comments as to why I don't think it should have been cut but you make a good point with the idea that you have that feeling of rising tension when even Chaucer words, their ace in the hole, can't get it done. That's an astute point, for sure.
One of my favorite movies. However after many conversations with others and looking at the comments section of this clip most people don't realize the importance of the line "Your men love you. If I knew nothing else about you it would be enough."
This movie is amazing! The actors all rocked and fit their parts perfectly and it had me laughing the whole way though out! It also was one of the first times I really bonded with my Unkie Dave and if something this fabulous can bring a close family even closer then that just makes it 1000X better x
Great scene as the true narrator of the original story this really showcases Chaucer's ability to tell a story that made this modern remake a possibility.
This is one of my top 3 favorite movies of all time. I've watched it dozens of times and have never seen this speech. After seeing it for the first time, I'm upset it was removed from the theatrical release.
И мой тоже. Очень люблю этот фильм, диалоги и музыку из него. Талантливое кино границ не знает.
This speech is beautiful. I've watched this movie over a dozen times and this is the first time I've seen it
*tastes the stuff he's been thrown at with*
"Mother?! Is my mother here? I'd recognize this cooking anywhere."
LOL
...Good thing it wasn't bovine residue ...freshly harvested
:·p
Agreed!! EPIC!!
"and as such is beyond contestation"
That's how my mom used to end the every argument
That was probably one of the greatest scene ever by an actor, Paul Bettany, greatly under rated actor, one of the best we have.
No esta infravalorado el se merece lo que obtiene
GODS I was strong then... armed only with a stick I faced the angry mob and none dare challenge me.
- R. Baratheon.
Bettany’s monologue was like something straight out of Shakespeare
Cry. Every time. Relate SO much. Coming from nothing. Wanting to be a lawyer. All the struggles. People trying to prevent it form happening. I know I will be weeping throughout the ENTIRE ceremony when I earn my diploma from law school.
This movie played such a big role in developing my character growing up
All these years later and I still love this movie.
I remember studying for an exam in college until early morning around 2am then this movie came up, my mind fought whether to get that sleep or watch this movie til 4am...It's one of my fave films after that and still is today.
I've never seen this! wow, what a moment. definitely should've been left in. makes so much more sense this way (why would the crowd that had been booing and throwing stuff be suddenly cheering when Will was knighted?), but to hear his friends' love for so eloquently expressed through Geoff... *sniff* don't care what anybody says, Geoff's and the prince's respective speeches work beautifully together. first one won their hearts, second made it legal where not a certain count is gonna challenge it :)
That’s a great point. With Chaucer’s speech it does make more sense for the crowd to cheer for William being knighted. In the theatrical logic dictates that the crowd was calmed because they were just taken by surprise that the prince was there not because they gained a sense of empathy from Chaucer’s speech.
That reaction is exactly why it had to be cut out. The movie was always cynical about social class status and celebrity. The idea that the crowd could have had its mind genuinely changed regarding the true nature of nobility by an earnest speech doesn't fit with the movie's message, but the idea that the fickle crowd would do a 180 just because an important celebrity told them to does fit.
Paul Bettany’s passion really shows through. We all should only hope to have that friend that will speak so fervently about us, but should also hope to be the kind of friend that would compel them to do so
"And as such is beyond contestation."
Modern translation:
"Nuff said, or I'm a whopp yo ass."
Didn't you mean 'murican translation?
Genre-Fluid Metal Plebtard Dude it means I beat the French at 16 and again at 18 capturing there king and no man has beaten me in battle do you really want to go there
I seriously cant belive ive never seen this version of the scene before
RIP Mr.Ledger.
Thanks for everything.
To Mr. Elliot .
Thank you so much for posting this ! I see you enjoy the actual movie that was first made ! Thank you again !
I really love this scene. it's a shame that it wasn't added in the theatrical movie. This is my opinion but I think it didn't really make sense with Chaucer's speech cut out because of how it portrayed the villagers as hating Will but then loving him. With Chaucer's speech however it sort of softens the villagers before Will is knighted.
Whilst it is very good, I still kind of prefer the theatrical edit because it made it that even Chaucer couldn't get them out of the predicament. As for the crowd liking William again fairly instantaneous, it could be argued that besides the Black Prince being liked by the people, its also a case of it looking bad form if they didn't cheer for something he labelled as 'beyond contestation' and to an extent cutting it out adds further weight to Chaucer's introduction/time waste to assist the others fixing William up with him again pointing out how William was born a stones throw from the stadium and son of the local thatcher and as such should cheer for him rather than some foreigner whom clearly isn't liked by many especially not Prince Edward whom clearly wanted to see Count Adhemar knocked down a peg or two.
"LISTEN TO ME!"
*Cabbage to the stomach*
Why didn't king Robert just say "stop this madness in the name of your king"
Gods he wasn't strong then
Mostly because that's Prince Edward, not a Robert of any kind...
@Holden Mcgroine That's nice, but this isn't game of thrones.
@@Silverwing2112 it's just a joke!
SEVEN HELLS!!
I just learned about the cut speech today, and I was actually brought to tears by it. Best Chaucer monologue by a long shot.
This speech should have been left in the movie. Bearing one's heart for another
Paul Bettany, Oscar worthy in my humble opinion, fantastic performance !!
The Joker is protected by Robert Baratheon, and Vision delivers a moving speech.
A.K.A. The Joker has friends, Robert Baratheon cares for someone other than himself and Vision has emotions.
And he was knighted by Prince Edward, the Black Prince.... Or should I say...
The Dark Knight 😂😂😂
Every single line of this entire film touches my heart. My favorite movie of all time.
AI think whoever decided to cut Chaucers speech in front of. The. Pillory should be put in the stocks themselves!
damn.... this scene should not have been left out.
It also helps to have the Prince himself backing you up.
the unfortunate reality is that it's way too word-heavy for the audience it's attracted. if it was left in, no doubt its cult following would have been far, far greater.
Troy Tran I'm so confused, this scene was in the film?
Bryony Curls nope, it was left out. when i watched the film, never saw it. deleted scene.
Dang. Chaucer knew how to work a crowd.
I have lost count of how many times I have watched this movie...Epic
Well the kicker now is since he is now a knight he will be required to march to war in France. Great scene though
Although, he proved that hes a damn good swordsmen already. Heck good enough that despite doing the sword in between jousts he still won against knights who in all likelihood saw combat :) I don't see will losing in very many engagements honestly.
Well we won the war, because of him :)
Brisdad53 no you were not required to march but a man who could fight in the melee and beat the Black Prince of Wales in the lists would have no fear of death on the field and I wouldn’t be surprised if the black prince would have employed him in his personal retinue men didn’t got to war at this point because they owned knight service they went for money a good archer could retire a rich man after 1 campaign and after many could secure a title land and inheritance for his family (well he could at least become a knight)
The war story would have been knights tale 2
I always wanted.to see william go to war with the prince and become one of his most loyal.knights. in these.days a prince.was surrounded by backstabbing cut throats. A true friend is always.more preciois than Gold
It matters not who you say you are in life when you're a leader. But how the men you lead treat you. Is the lesson I got from this scene
I'm sort of in two minds about Geoff's speech being cut. On the one hand, it's a wonderful piece of writing and performance, and it helps explain why the crowd turned so quickly from throwing things at him to cheering for his knighthood.
On the other, making a point about how nobility comes from actions rather from birth and following it up with Prince Edward knighting Will because of a claim of noble lineage (however false it's understood to be) sends a strange sort of mixed message.
Chaucer's speech was enough to settle the crowd, but only the prince knighting him would be enough to allow him to compete in jousts.
Let me bring you back to this two years later with a chance to bridge the gap.
Willium is Noble in Heart. A Knighting makes him Noble Legally.
that double message is the whole point, and is contained in the final edit - prince edward is knighting him based on merit and using corrupt social norms as a pretext.
I love this movie, saw it in the theater when it came out, have watched it a dozen times on video and can watch it any time I want on google but here I am loving the clips of it. That's how much fun and heroic that movie is.
There is nothing historically accurate about this movie, but it is so much fun.
The joker, Solomon kane, and Vision in one scene,, damn!!
you forgot Steve the pirate
I can see why it was cut. His speech was about how even though he was poor, his heart is royal. Then the prince comes in, and is like "He is royal and thats all that matters"
did you skip the first half of the prince's speech? his whole point is that merit is what matters and the second half of his speech is just the pretext required to negotiate a corrupt society. Did you really think the prince actually found that william had noble blood, or was it obvious that he was lying through his teeth?
This movie is massively underrated.... its AWESOME
Great scene and great movie! Well done Paul Bettany and James Purefoy!
Said before, I will forever say, James Purefoy is the best Bond we never got.
I never understood why Paul never got the credit he deserved. I mean his own manager said he'd never work in Hollywood again. He's an amazing actor.
He's Vision... in the MCU
Have you not heard the story? He was literally told his career was dead, right before Joss called him and asked him to play Jarvis. And before he was in the MCU? Knight's Tale, The Da Vinci Code, and Firewall are the only three movies I remember him being in.
@@Keihryon Inkheart? A Beautiful Mind? Master and Commander?
@@Keihryon He's an unbelievable actor
Still remember seeing this in theaters. I became a instant fan of Ledger. Seen it twice more in theaters.
what an awesome... this movie needs a directors cut release if there were more scenes like this.
This has to be one of the best scenes in this movie.
Very earnest and intense from Bettany.
Paul Bellamy will be recognized as one of the greatest actors of his generation one day.
Oops, spelling! Bethany!!
@@andystuckey2561 Bettany. 😉 And I hope you're right. It breaks my hard that he's treated like a mediocre talented mid-card actor, when he actually is one of the very best in his craft.
@@strangefruit42 yeah, I’m old don’t always look at what I typed. I think he is fantastic
@@andystuckey2561 See, old, too. Just noticed that I typed hard instead of heart. Or did my phone decide? Oh, I dunno. I just know that Paul is absolutely incredible.
What a great scene.
the best speech in a film with great speeches and it got cut whoever edited this for shame
Its shameful on Hollywood to cut out such a great piece within a scene. This one part goes right to the heartbeat of the whole movie. It makes one think how many movies have been ruined or destroyed on the cutting room floor. Paul Bettany is a fabulous actor and thus was one of his greatest scenes in my opinion. To have it cut out likely diminished his ability to get not only an award but better acting jobs. This is what makes me hate what those in power in Hollywood are doing.
wow, i don't remember seeing this in the movie. damn what a great speech and so well delivered!
"God love you William, so do I." Favorite line.
I said this not realizing you said it already.... But I guess great minds think alike.
Why the fuck did they leave out this scene? I actually felt like the scene was missing something when I watched this on netflix. As it is, it makes the townspeople to be complete assholes. The way they just start being his best fans again after throwing shit at him the second they found out he was actually "royalty" always rubbed me the wrong way. It makes them out to be really incredibly shallow - maybe thats how it would have been historically, but I always felt this film tried to promote a heartwarming message in favour of historical accuracy. This speech makes them see what they're doing wrong before the prince steps in, and further enforces what he says to Will before he has him released. Not to mention how touching and how great Paul Bethany's performance is here. They should not have left this scene out.