The cinematic world was graced with an intriguing masterpiece, ‘The Old Guard,’ directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, in 2020. The film, which is based on the comic of the same name by Greg Rucka, brings to life an arresting narrative, replete with thrilling action sequences, nuanced characters, and profound themes. This comprehensive guide will take you on an exploratory journey of ‘The Old Guard,’ from the comic and movie summaries to the differences, curiosities, and characters associated with it.

Comic Summary of ‘The Old Guard’

The comic series of ‘The Old Guard,’ penned by Greg Rucka, introduces us to a group of immortal warriors who have been battling for justice and survival over centuries. The leader, an ancient warrior named Andromache of Scythia or simply ‘Andy,’ guides her team through conflicts that span across time and space. However, their existence becomes jeopardized when their secret is exposed, forcing them to confront the challenges of the modern world while battling their own inner demons.

Movie Summary of ‘The Old Guard’

‘The Old Guard,’ directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, mirrors the comic’s storyline, with a few creative deviations. The film follows Andy and her team of immortals, including Booker, Joe, and Nicky, as they navigate the complexities of the 21st century while preserving their clandestine existence. The plot intensifies with the introduction of Nile, a U.S. Marine who discovers her own immortality, and the team’s struggle against a corporation that aims to exploit their unique abilities for profit.

When and Where Does the Story Take Place?

‘The Old Guard,’ both in the comic and movie, unfolds over diverse temporal and geographical settings. The narrative sprawls across centuries, highlighting the team’s participation in numerous historical events. From the Crusades to modern-day conflicts, the immortals find themselves in various parts of the world, underscoring the global backdrop of their eternal battle.

Film Locations of ‘The Old Guard’

Although the plot of ‘The Old Guard’ spans multiple continents, the movie was primarily filmed in the United Kingdom and Morocco. The UK sites offered a range of landscapes and architecture, adding authenticity to the diverse settings in the film. On the other hand, the Moroccan locations provided the perfect backdrop for the scenes set in the Middle East and North Africa.

Who’s Who in ‘The Old Guard’

‘The Old Guard’ boasts a stellar cast that brings the comic characters to life with nuanced performances. Here’s a quick rundown of the key characters:

• Andromache of Scythia (Andy): Played by Charlize Theron, Andy is the oldest of the immortals and the team’s de facto leader. Her character is a blend of strength and vulnerability, as she grapples with the burdens of immortality.
• Nile Freeman: Kiki Layne portrays Nile, the newest member of the team who discovers her immortality while serving as a Marine in Afghanistan.
• Booker: Played by Matthias Schoenaerts, Booker is an immortal who shares a close bond with Andy and struggles with the loneliness that accompanies their everlasting life.
• Joe and Nicky: Marwan Kenzari and Luca Marinelli play Joe and Nicky, respectively. Both were enemies turned lovers during the Crusades, and their relationship adds a layer of emotional depth to the story.

Memorable Quotes from ‘The Old Guard’

‘The Old Guard’ is punctuated with thought-provoking dialogues that reflect the film’s central themes. Here are a few noteworthy quotes:

• “Just because we keep living doesn’t mean we stop hurting.”
• “We don’t get the answers we want.”
• “Everyone is fodder for time.”

Soundtrack by Hauschka: Bio and Other Works

The soundtrack of ‘The Old Guard’ is composed by Volker Bertelmann, popularly known as Hauschka. Born in 1966, Hauschka is a renowned German composer and pianist recognized for his experimental approach to music. His score for ‘The Old Guard’ complements the film’s action-packed sequences and emotional moments. Hauschka has also composed the soundtracks for notable films like ‘Adrift,’ ‘Lion,’ and ‘Hotel Mumbai.’

Curiosities about ‘The Old Guard’

‘The Old Guard’ is laden with intriguing elements that add depth to its narrative. Here are a few interesting facts:

• The film incorporates subtle hints regarding the characters’ pasts that are not explicitly elaborated in the comic.
• The fight choreography in the movie was designed to reflect the characters’ centuries-long combat experience.
• Nile’s character in the film diverges slightly from the comic’s version, offering a more in-depth exploration of her background and emotional journey.

Tips for Cosplay and Dress Like Andy and Nile

For fans looking to cosplay as Andy and Nile, here are a few tips:

• For Andy’s look, opt for a black tactical outfit, complete with cargo pants, a tactical vest, and combat boots. Don’t forget her signature battle axe for an added touch of authenticity.
• For Nile, go for a modern military ensemble consisting of a tactical shirt, cargo pants, and military boots. A tactical vest and gloves would complete the look.

Biography of Greg Rucka, the Author of ‘The Old Guard’

Born in 1969, Greg Rucka is an acclaimed American author renowned for his contributions to the comic book industry. He has created several well-known series, including ‘The Old Guard,’ ‘Whiteout,’ and ‘Queen & Country.’ Rucka is celebrated for his intricate plotting, strong character development, and the incorporation of political and social themes in his works.

Greg Rucka’s 5 Best Works

In addition to ‘The Old Guard,’ Greg Rucka has authored several notable comics and novels. Here are five of his best works:

• ‘Whiteout’
• ‘Queen & Country’
• ‘Lazarus’
• ‘Stumptown’
• ‘Batman: No Man’s Land’

5 Other Media by Gina Prince-Bythewood

Gina Prince-Bythewood, the director of ‘The Old Guard,’ is known for her distinctive storytelling style. Here are five other notable works by Prince-Bythewood:

• ‘Love & Basketball’
• ‘The Secret Life of Bees’
• ‘Beyond the Lights’
• ‘Shots Fired’
• ‘Cloak & Dagger’

10 Similar Movies to ‘The Old Guard’

If you enjoyed ‘The Old Guard,’ here are 10 similar movies that explore themes of immortality, action, and adventure:

• ‘Highlander’
• ‘Logan’
• ‘Mad Max: Fury Road’
• ‘Edge of Tomorrow’
• ‘Underworld’
• ‘Looper’
• ‘John Wick’
• ‘The Matrix’
• ‘Blade Runner 2049’
• ‘Ghost in the Shell’

Book Club Questions for ‘The Old Guard’

If you’re part of a book club or simply enjoy discussing literature, here are some discussion questions for ‘The Old Guard’:

• How does the comic explore the theme of immortality?
• Discuss the dynamics of the team and their individual stories.
• How does the comic handle the concept of morality in the face of prolonged existence?
• What is the significance of Nile’s character in the narrative?
• How does ‘The Old Guard’ depict the notion of time and history?

10 Similar Novels to ‘The Old Guard’

If you enjoyed ‘The Old Guard,’ you might find these 10 novels equally captivating. Each of these books offers intriguing narratives of action, adventure, and immortality:

• ‘Interview with the Vampire’ by Anne Rice
• ‘The Immortalists’ by Chloe Benjamin
• ‘The Passage’ by Justin Cronin
• ‘The First Fifteen Lives of Harry August’ by Claire North
• ‘Altered Carbon’ by Richard K. Morgan
• ‘Never Let Me Go’ by Kazuo Ishiguro
• ‘The Golem and the Jinni’ by Helene Wecker
• ‘The Time Traveler’s Wife’ by Audrey Niffenegger
• ‘The Picture of Dorian Gray’ by Oscar Wilde
• ‘The Sirens of Titan’ by Kurt Vonnegut

Parent Guide for ‘The Old Guard’

As a parent, it’s essential to assess the suitability of ‘The Old Guard’ for your children. The movie is rated R for violence, strong language, and adult themes, making it inappropriate for younger audiences. However, for mature teenagers and adults, the film offers a wealth of themes to discuss, including morality, history, and the concept of immortality.

Buying Guide and Gift Idea for ‘The Old Guard’

If you’re looking to purchase ‘The Old Guard’ or gift it to a fan, you can find the comic series and movie on various online platforms. For collectors, there are also ‘The Old Guard’ action figures, posters, and apparel available. Remember to check the product’s authenticity and ensure it’s from a reliable seller.

Conclusion

‘The Old Guard’ offers a captivating exploration of immortality, friendship, and survival. Whether through the pages of Greg Rucka’s comic series or the frames of Gina Prince-Bythewood’s film, the story of Andy and her team of immortals leaves a lasting impression. As you delve into this guide, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of ‘The Old Guard’ and its multifaceted narrative. So, immerse yourself in the world of ‘The Old Guard,’ and delve into a timeless tale of warriors battling through the ages.