Seven Kings Must Die (full title, The Last Kingdom: Seven Kings Must Die) is a Netflix historical action drama film that serves as the epic conclusion to the story of Uhtred of Bebbanburg (Alexander Dreymon), based on the historical fiction series of novels, The Saxon Stories by Bernard Cornwell.
Seven Kings Must Die Plot Synopsis
The film takes place in a time of turmoil, with King Edward on his deathbed and enemies of Wessex stirring in the shadows. Most of England is already under Saxon control, but Northumbria, governed by Uhtred, remains technically independent.
Uhtred, although born a Saxon, was raised as a Dane and follows Norse paganism. In the previous events of The Last Kingdom, Uhtred brokered peace between King Constantin of Scotia and Edward, making Northumbria a buffer between England and Scotia.
After Edward’s death, Aelfweard of Wessex, one of his sons, lays claim to the throne. Edward’s widowed queen Eadgifu and son Edmund flee to Northumbria, seeking shelter in Bebbanburg, where Uhtred resides.
Uhtred supports Edmund’s claim to the throne and opposes the new ruler, Aethelstan, who has become a ruthless religious zealot under the influence of his aide and secret lover, Ingilmundr. Uhtred refuses to swear allegiance to Aethelstan until he proves himself worthy of ruling England.
Aethelstan’s ambitions and oppressive rule make other leaders on the British Isles uncomfortable, and Anlaf rallies them together against Aethelstan’s perceived threat. Uhtred is apprehended, and his son and Edmund are sent to Ingilmundr’s garrison.
Uhtred is left wandering, near death, until he is found by Anlaf’s people and brought to the Shetland Isles, where the disgruntled kings have gathered.
The assembled kings advise Uhtred to assassinate Aethelstan to prevent a war. However, realizing Ingilmundr’s treachery, Uhtred rushes to Winchester to warn Aethelstan instead.
Despite initial disbelief, Aethelstan eventually recognizes his mentor’s intentions. At the Battle of Brunanburh, the English army emerges victorious due to Uhtred’s tactics, but Uhtred himself is severely wounded.
Seven Kings Must Die Ending: Does Uhtred Die?
In the final scenes, Uhtred emerges from his rest, bearing the scars of battle. In the presence of Osbert, his successor, Uhtred swears loyalty to Aethelstan under the condition that the young king never marries and the throne passes to Edmund.
As Uhtred speaks to his loved ones and friends, he witnesses a hall opening where all the people he has lost are gathered for a feast. The film ends with Uhtred standing between the mortal world and Valhalla, leaving his fate unclear.
Cornwell’s books provide a less ambiguous ending, with Uhtred achieving land and marrying a younger widow. In the film, Uhtred’s choices represent a path toward either eternal peace in Valhalla or a few more years with his son and friends if he survives. While the Chronicles don’t record Uhtred’s fate, those who knew him consider him the greatest warrior of their age, hinting at his survival.
Why Does Uhtred Ask Aethelstan Never to Marry?
Uhtred discovers Aethelstan’s sexual relationship with Ingilmundr, but keeps it a secret. Ingilmundr, however, informs others about it, adding to their outrage against Aethelstan. Knowing the consequences this revelation would bring, Uhtred includes the condition of Aethelstan never marrying and selecting Edmund as his heir. Uhtred serves as a shield wall for Aethelstan, who gratefully accepts the offer.
Who Are the Seven Kings Prophesied to Die? What is the Northumbrian Prophecy?
The title ‘Seven Kings Must Die’ refers to a prophecy spoken by Ingrith, Finan’s lover. The prophecy states, “Seven Kings Must Die, and the Woman You Love.” Initially, Uhtred believes the prophecy refers to him, but it is later revealed that the second part is meant for Finan.
Edward is effectively the first king to die, and during the Battle of Brunanburh, five heirs or future kings of enemy realms fall. The prophecy becomes accurate with Astrid’s death, who was meant to be the ruler of Northumbria.
While the film leaves Uhtred’s fate open-ended, his legendary status and the hope for his survival remain strong. Whether Uhtred finds eternal rest in Valhalla or continues his journey alongside his loved ones, his story in ‘Seven Kings Must Die’ is a captivating and unforgettable conclusion to the epic saga of Uhtred of Bebbanburg.
