The Pagan King: The Battle of Death (2018) is a historical epic that captures the essence of valor, loyalty, and the unyielding spirit of a nation under siege. Directed by Aigars Grauba, this Latvian film takes viewers back to the 13th century, where a small kingdom faces monumental challenges in its fight for freedom and survival.

Set in the ancient lands of Semigallia, the film tells the story of the young and reluctant leader Namejs (played by Edvin Endre). Following the death of the kingdom’s ruler, Namejs inherits the crown and the monumental responsibility of defending his people from invading crusaders. The narrative unfolds as Namejs navigates betrayal, internal conflict, and external threats to unite his people and protect their way of life.

The film’s title, The Battle of Death, underscores the high stakes of the conflict, where the survival of Semigallian culture and independence hangs by a thread. Namejs’ journey is not just about warfare but also about self-discovery and the burden of leadership.