The movie follows the story of Balian de Ibelin (Orlando Bloom), a French blacksmith who becomes a knight and leader of the Crusader forces. After the death of his wife, Balian travels to Jerusalem, where he becomes embroiled in the conflict between the Crusaders and the Muslim defenders of the city. The film's plot is a fictionalized account of the Siege of Jerusalem, with a focus on Balian's journey from a humble blacksmith to a heroic leader.