How a modern filmmaker uses Arthurian myth to confront our contemporary agricultural crises

History · Published 30 September 2026 · Updated 25 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Peter Treherne’s debut film, Matter of Britain, reimagines the Holy Grail legend through the lens of modern environmental decay. By blending documentary footage with staged performances in the English countryside, the film draws a sharp, unsettling parallel between the medieval wasteland of Arthurian lore and the agricultural struggles of today.

The Matter of Britain refers to a vast body of medieval literature centered on legendary figures like King Arthur, which flourished from the 12th to the 16th century. Traditionally, these stories served as national myth-making, helping writers reconcile the diverse Celtic, Anglo-Saxon, Roman, and Norse inheritances of the British Isles. While these tales were once used to establish historical legitimacy for ruling dynasties, they have proven remarkably adaptable, evolving through centuries of retelling.

In his 2026 feature film, Peter Treherne breathes new life into this ancient cycle by collaborating with over 300 residents of the parish of Mayfield, East Sussex. The film is intentionally atemporal, featuring modern technology and contemporary speech alongside medieval costumes. This stylistic choice highlights the enduring relevance of the myth, specifically its focus on the 'ravaged wasteland'—a central motif in the search for the Holy Grail that Treherne mirrors against current agricultural crises.

This creative reinterpretation demonstrates how the Matter of Britain remains a living tradition rather than a static historical relic. By grounding the myth in the tangible reality of the English landscape, the film invites viewers to consider how ancient narratives of restoration and decay continue to inform our understanding of the land. It is a striking example of how the 'Matter'—once a tool for medieval chroniclers—can be repurposed to address the urgent, material concerns of the 21st century.

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