Trading the USS Enterprise with UK history, Chris Pine is gearing up as the King of Scots in Netflix’s Outlaw King, which has just started filming. In this historical drama, Pine will star as Robert the Bruce, the King of Scots who was in command during the First War of Scottish Independence. The film will document the year-long dispute that pitted Scotland against England, resulting in Robert’s rise to power, sudden defeat, and eventual return to form. England’s King John then declared Robert an outlaw, hence the film’s title.


This will mark Pine’s second time teaming up with director David MacKenzie. Their last film together, Hell or High Water, was a critical success, earning four Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture. And in a way, there appears to be some thematic similarities between the two films, at least as far as disreputable underdogs go.


As reported by Collider, principal photography on Outlaw King has just started in the UK, shooting in various historical locations throughout Scotland. In fact, production will also set up camp in the very place that King Robert’s remains are presumed to be located. The shoot is also being supported by Creative Scotland, a local council that supports and funds creative industries within the country. Here is the first image of Pine as Robert the Bruce, which has just been released:


It’s no secret that digital streaming services are starting to up the ante in terms of critical and awards-friendly output. Last year, Amazon’s Manchester by the Sea took home two Oscars (one for Original Screenplay, the other for Actor in a Leading Role). And if the film’s critical attention lives up to Netflix’s expectations, King Outlaw may very well hold some weight in terms of award consideration. This year, their post-WWII period picture Mudbound is already earning solid reception – the kind that may very well earn itself some votes come awards season. Outlaw King, however, won’t be eligible until next year.


Apart from directing, MacKenzie has also written the screenplay, alongside Mark Bomback (War for the Planet of the Apes), Bathsheba Doran (Boardwalk Empire), James MacInnes, and (The Rocket Post). Scottish playwright David Harrower was also brought aboard to help with scripting duties. Rounding out the film’s cast are Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Tony Curran, Stephen Dillane, Florence Pugh, and Billy Howle.