Source material
Based on Rosemary Sutcliff's novel The Eagle of the Ninth.
The Eagle adapts Rosemary Sutcliff's classic novel The Eagle of the Ninth. Channing Tatum plays Marcus Aquila, a Roman centurion who travels beyond Hadrian's Wall with his British slave Esca (Jamie Bell) to recover the lost eagle standard of the Ninth Legion and learn the fate of his father.
At a Glance
CountryUnited States / United Kingdom
DirectorKevin Macdonald
Based onNovel by Rosemary Sutcliff
Release2011
Why The Eagle is worth watching
The Eagle adapts Rosemary Sutcliff's classic novel The Eagle of the Ninth.
Twenty years after the Ninth Legion vanished in Scotland, Marcus Aquila arrives in Britain desperate to redeem his family name. Wounded in battle and honourably discharged, he buys Esca, a Briton who hates Rome, as his slave — then relies on him as guide beyond the Wall.
The two men enter Pict and Brigantian territory searching for the golden eagle, facing tribes who remember Roman cruelty and warriors who would kill them on sight. Their uneasy partnership becomes the emotional core of the journey.
Kevin Macdonald's film is quieter than Centurion but shares its obsession with Roman Britain, lost legions, and the shame of defeat.
Channing Tatum crosses Hadrian's Wall to restore the Ninth Legion's honour
Companion piece to Centurion in the
Companion piece to Centurion in the Roman Britain subgenre.
Kevin Macdonald (The Last King of
Directed by Kevin Macdonald (The Last King of Scotland).
Filmed in Hungary and Scotland standing
Filmed in Hungary and Scotland standing in for Roman Britain.
Story
Channing Tatum crosses Hadrian's Wall to restore the Ninth Legion's honour
01
Marcus seeks redemption
Channing Tatum's wounded centurion cannot rest until he learns what happened to the Ninth Legion and his father.
02
Beyond the Wall with Esca
Jamie Bell's British slave knows the land and despises Rome — making him the perfect and most dangerous guide.
03
The lost eagle
Recovering the legion's standard becomes a test of honour, loyalty, and survival in hostile territory.
Cast
Main characters and performers
Behind the Scenes
Based on Rosemary Sutcliff's novel The Eagle of the Ninth.
Companion piece to Centurion in the Roman Britain subgenre.
Directed by Kevin Macdonald (The Last King of Scotland).
Filmed in Hungary and Scotland standing in for Roman Britain.
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FAQ
What is The Eagle about?
The Eagle adapts Rosemary Sutcliff's classic novel The Eagle of the Ninth.
Who directs The Eagle?
Kevin Macdonald directed the film.
How long is The Eagle?
Approximately 114 min.
Where can I watch The Eagle?
Check MovieLinks for current streaming and purchase options in your region.
