Crossbow

Crossbow follows the adventures of William Tell and takes place in the 14th-century in Switzerland. William Tell and his son are imprisoned by the tyrannical Gessler. As Governor of Austria, Gessler plans to stop the Swiss uprising. Having split the apple on his son's head with his crossbow, much to Gessler's chagrin, there is no stopping William Tell's legendary strength and skill.

Crossbow (1987-1989) is a French-produced medieval adventure series created by Anthony Horowitz and Friedrich Schiller, broadcast on France 3. Its legendary hero William Tell (Will Lyman) and his son are imprisoned by the tyrannical governor Hermann Gessler (Jeremy Clyde), who aims to crush the Swiss uprising before it spreads. Supporting players include Dana Barron as Eleanor, Hans Meyer as Tyroll, and Nick Brimble as Horst, all woven into the rebellion. Each episode builds around Tell's archery, daring escapes, and clashes with Gessler's soldiers as the resistance gathers strength. The series runs for three seasons of twenty-four episodes each, forming one continuing story of oppression and defiance. Set in fourteenth-century Switzerland, its mountain villages and castles give the adventure a sweeping, rugged feel. The tone is heroic and buoyant, with swashbuckling action balanced by warmth between father and son. Fans of Robin Hood and The Adventures of Robin Hood will find resonance in its folk-hero defiance and family-friendly swagger.

• Robin Hoodshared swashbuckling medieval adventure, folk hero rebellion against a tyrant
• The Adventures of Robin Hoodshared legendary archer hero fighting occupation, family adventure tone
• Ivanhoeshared european medieval setting, heroic outlaw defiance of oppressive rule

Created by

Anthony Horowitz, Friedrich Schiller

Release Date

1987-08-30

Episode runtime

26 min

Rating

7.2 / 10 (10)

What is Crossbow about?

A legendary archer and his son defy a tyrannical governor in fourteenth-century Switzerland during the struggle for Swiss freedom.

What is Crossbow like to watch?

Ember's analysis rates the pacing of Crossbow as brisk, its intensity as moderate and its storytelling as simple.

Is Crossbow violent?

Somewhat. Ember rates the violence in Crossbow as moderate.

Which shows are like Crossbow?

Shows with a similar feel include Robin Hood, The Adventures of Robin Hood, and Ivanhoe.

How long is Crossbow?

Crossbow: 3 seasons, 72 episodes.

Is Crossbow still running?

No, Crossbow has ended.

Where can I watch Crossbow?

In United States, Crossbow streams on fuboTV.