The Uprising: Is Andrew Garfield’s Historical Drama Based on a True Story?

The first trailer for Paul Greengrass’s anticipated historical drama The Uprising has officially dropped, leaving fans asking one major question: Is Andrew Garfield‘s new film based on a true story? The answer is yes. The upcoming Focus Features epic is directly inspired by the English Peasants’ Revolt of 1381, a massive medieval class rebellion against the tyranny of a 14-year-old King Richard II. (Via Indiewire)

The official synopsis reads:

The legendary leader of a ferocious rebellion against the tyranny of King Richard II. As war burns across England, he forms an army of the people to face the King’s might in a fight for justice and survival.

Oscar nominee Andrew Garfield leads a stellar ensemble cast, portraying the legendary real-life rebel leader. As war burns across England, this gritty action drama explores an unforgettable fight for justice and survival. Moviegoers can prepare to see this intense true story come alive in theaters later this fall.

Andrew Garfield Prepares for an Intense Role, Portraying the 1381 Peasants’ Revolt

The narrative follows Tyler, played by Garfield, a humble farmer who molds a fierce army of commoners to stand tall against the oppressive royal Crown. Alongside Garfield, the star-studded movie features an exceptional lineup including Jamie Bell, Stephen Dillane, Tom Hollander, Cosmo Jarvis, Thomasin McKenzie, and Jonny Lee Miller.

Written and directed by Greengrass, highly regarded for his work on Captain Phillips and the Bourne franchise, The Uprising promises a grounded, realistic look at medieval warfare, trading idealized fantasy for historical accuracy and visceral tension.

The true events behind the film stem from the mid-14th century, following a severe outbreak of the bubonic plague that killed nearly a third of England’s population. The trailer embodies the unrest, as Garfield’s character portrays the depth through his dialogue:

I am no soldier. I am no priest. I’m just a farmer. The land is broken. We are forced to work beyond what our souls can take.

The Uprising promises to be a thrilling cinematic journey that resurrects one of history’s most fascinating class struggles. By grounding its narrative in the genuine suffering and bravery of the 14th-century working class, the film elevates itself beyond a standard period piece. Garfield’s dedication to dramatic, historically dense roles guarantees that audiences will witness a deeply humanized portrayal of medieval defiance.

Are you excited to see Garfield in this intense role? Let us know in the comments below.

The Uprising will come to theatres on September 11, 2026.