The First King
Performance & Direction: The First King Review
Last updated: February 15, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is The First King (2019) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 7.1/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this History.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any History is often anchored by its ensemble, and The First King features a noteworthy lineup led by Alessandro Borghi . Supported by the likes of Alessio Lapice and Fabrizio Rongione , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: The First King
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2019, The First King is a History, Drama film directed by Matteo Rovere. The narrative presents a compelling narrative that engages viewers from start to finish. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Alessandro Borghi.
Story Breakdown
The title presents its narrative with careful attention to pacing and character development. Romulus and Remus, two shepherds and loyal brothers, end up taking part to a journey that will lead one of them to be the founder of the greatest nation ever seen. However, the fate of the chosen one will pass from killing his own brother. The story unfolds naturally, allowing viewers to become invested in the outcome while maintaining engagement throughout.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The title establishes its world and central conflict efficiently in the opening act.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Alessandro Borghi's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The climax brings together the narrative threads, providing resolution while staying true to the established tone.
Ending Explained: The First King
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Matteo Rovere, The First King resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to history resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation involving Alessandro Borghi, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes with clear resolution of its central conflicts, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Main characters complete meaningful transformations, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the history themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of The First King reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
The First King Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
The First King draws heavily from documented historical records. As a history, drama film directed by Matteo Rovere, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Alessandro Borghi's character.
Historical Context
The film balances historical fidelity with cinematic storytelling. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
The production demonstrates respect for its source material, with attention to period detail and historical context.
Accuracy Assessment: The First King adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch The First King?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy History films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Alessandro Borghi or the director
- Want solid genre entertainment
Box Office Collection: The First King
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $8.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $2.4M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
The First King Budget
The estimated production budget for The First King is $8.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Top Cast: The First King
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Where to Watch The First King Online?
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Fandango At HomeThe First King Parents Guide & Age Rating
2019 AdvisoryWondering about The First King age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of The First King is 123 minutes (2h 3m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 7.1/10, and global performance metrics, The First King is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 2019 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The First King worth watching?
The First King is definitely worth watching if you enjoy History movies. It has a verified rating of 7.1/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find The First King parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for The First King identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of The First King?
The total duration of The First King is 123 minutes, which is approximately 2h 3m long.
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movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.












