User:Louis Binns/sandbox

The Varangian - Short Film
The Varangian: A short film Written and Directed by Louis Binns. (Born 25th October 1999)

Summary of Plot: In the year 862, a band of Vikings, known as the Varangians, were forced out of Western Russia, by a joint Slavic and Finnic, rebel army. The Varangians were forced to retreat back to their previous home lands in Scandinavia, leaving the rebels to clear the battlefield for survivors and wealth. A lone Varangian warrior, survives the battle, only to wake up surrounded by enemy's. He escapes the aftermath of the battle, only to find his troubles are long from over.

Historical Inspiration:

In the 9th century, the Rus' operated the Volga trade route, which connected Northern Russia (Gardariki) with the Middle East (Serkland). The Volga route declined by the end of the century, and the Dnieper and Dniester routes rapidly overtook it in popularity. Apart from Ladoga and Novgorod, Gnyozdovo and Gotland were major centres for Varangian trade.

According to the Primary Chronicle, in 862, the Finnic and Slavic tribes in the area of Novgorod rebelled against their Varangian rulers, driving them overseas back to Scandinavia, but they soon started to conflict with each other. The disorder prompted the tribes to invite the Varangians back "to come and rule them" and bring peace to the region. Led by Rurik and his brothers Truvor and Sineus, the invited Varangians (called Rus') settled around the town of Holmgård (Novgorod).

Cast and Crew:
 * Written and Directed by Louis Binns
 * Produced by Louis Binns
 * Edited by Louis Binns
 * Cinematography by George Blackburn


 * The Varangian Played by Louis Binns
 * The Scavenger Played by Louis Binns
 * The Slavic Axe Man Played by Frankie Binns
 * Shield Maiden Played by Esme Moriarty Smith
 * Slavic Spear Man Played by Daniel Salvatori

References: