Released in theaters on December 21, 2016, Assassin's Creed, directed by Justin Kurzel, brings Ubisoft’s popular franchise to the big screen, blending action cinema with science fiction. Led by Michael Fassbender (in a dual role) and Marion Cotillard, the film uses the Animus—an innovative technology that taps into genetic memory—to connect past and present, as well as 15th-century Spain. The movie will be available on HBO Max starting from January 17, 2026.
Condemned to death, Callum Lynch is rescued by a shadowy organization with unclear motives. Instead of facing execution, he's placed into the Animus to relive the experiences of his ancestor Aguilar in 15th-century Spain. These repeated dives into the past aren't just experiments—they're designed to unlock inherited knowledge and instincts, ultimately revealing to Callum his connection to a lineage aligned with the Assassins.
As Aguilar's memories resurface, Callum begins to realize that the age-old conflict between Assassins and Templars isn't just myth — it's a hidden war spanning centuries. In the present day, he must acquire new physical and tactical skills he never thought he possessed in order to prevent the Templars from obtaining a coveted artifact that could tip the balance between control and free will.
The film is part of the wave of video game adaptations from the 2010s, balancing a commitment to honoring the franchise’s iconic imagery with a standalone story. Justin Kurzel reunites with Fassbender and Cotillard after Macbeth, opting for a tactile approach: close-quarters combat, parkour-inspired choreography, and stunts designed to minimize digital effects. The iconic “leap of faith” sequence, in particular, was crafted as a physical feat—performed without major digital tricks—to evoke the series’ signature sense of vertigo.
The production team chose a strong historical grounding: the 15th-century scenes were shot in Spanish, with filming taking place across Malta, Spain, and Pinewood Studios in England, where the modern settings linked to Abstergo were constructed. Aesthetically, director Kurzel draws inspiration from art and cinema—highlighting influences from Caravaggio and film noir, as well as Sergio Leone and Lawrence of Arabia—to establish a distinctive visual identity for the film.
Assassin's Creed primarily targets fans of the franchise, who will recognize the core themes of the series—such as genetic memory, the millennia-old conflict, and the battle between Assassins and Templars. It also appeals to action enthusiasts who enjoy stories packed with conspiracies, training sequences, and infiltration. Additionally, the film might attract viewers curious about video game adaptations that aim to blend the saga’s mythology with cinematic storytelling, though this often results in a dense plot requiring close attention.
Assassin's Creed
Movie | 2016
Released in theaters: December 21, 2016
Available on HBO Max starting January 17, 2026
Action, Science Fiction | Duration: 1h 56min
Directed by Justin Kurzel | Starring Michael Fassbender, Marion Cotillard, Jeremy Irons
Original title: Assassin's Creed
Country: United States
Blending action and sci-fi thriller elements, Assassin's Creed explores the concept of bodily memory to connect a modern-day quest with a medieval past, set against the backdrop of secret societies and ideological battles.
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