Assassin’s Creed (2016) is a science fiction action film directed by Justin Kurzel, and it’s an adaptation of Ubisoft’s highly popular video game series of the same name. The film aims to capture the essence of the game’s unique blend of historical fiction, science fiction, and action-adventure, while introducing new characters and a fresh storyline that expands the universe of the Assassin’s Creed franchise.

Plot Summary

The film stars Michael Fassbender as Callum Lynch, a modern-day criminal who is saved from execution by a mysterious organization called Abstergo Industries. Callum discovers that Abstergo is the contemporary incarnation of the Templar Order, an ancient group with a long history of conflict with the Assassins. The Templars seek to find the Apple of Eden, a powerful artifact that can control free will, and they believe Callum is the key to locating it.

Through a revolutionary technology called the Animus, Callum is able to relive the genetic memories of his ancestor, Aguilar de Nerha, an Assassin during the Spanish Inquisition. As Callum experiences Aguilar’s memories, he learns about the centuries-old struggle between the Assassins and the Templars, and he begins to embrace his heritage as an Assassin.

The film shifts between the 15th-century Spain and modern-day, blending historical events with fast-paced action sequences. Aguilar’s story in the past intertwines with Callum’s journey in the present as he battles Abstergo and the Templars’ nefarious plans.

Themes and Style

Assassin’s Creed explores themes of free will, identity, and the cyclical nature of history. The film delves into the moral ambiguity of both the Assassins and the Templars, showing that neither side is entirely good or evil, but rather, they represent different philosophies about human freedom and control.

Visually, the film adopts a stylized, gritty aesthetic, with carefully choreographed action scenes that echo the parkour-inspired movement of the video games. The film also incorporates the iconic “leap of faith,” a signature move of the Assassins, adding to the authenticity for fans of the series.