Robin Hood Retrospective
This latest unnecessary traditional reworking movie adaptation of Robin Hood follows thief of the rich and giver to the poor, Robin of Loxley’s exploits. Filmmakers hope it’s the must-see beginning of a whole new Sherwood Forest swashbuckling franchise. Wrong!
The crusader in question, this time played by impressive young gun English pocket rocket Taron Egerton (soon to be seen as Sir Elton John in Rocketman), could be a revelation in years with energetic, witty talent potential, especially showcased in the Kingsman. Favourable Oscar winner Jamie Foxx gives a new spin on loyal Little John, while versatile Australian Ben Mendelsohn (Rouge One, The Big Steal) does a spirited justice to the timeless tyrant Sheriff of Nottingham with zero results. I hate to say it but he’s unwatchable.
No one has yet surpassed late, great Alan Rickman (Prince of Thieves). Audiences may be the judge, jury, box office executioner on this one where nonsensical historic elements don’t constitute entertainment or guilty big screen pleasure. Rather, an on-the-nose bonfire of plummeting producer money burning on screen. Eve Hewson on the verge of silver lining stardom and presence veteran F. Murray Abraham do their best with cringeworthy dialogue which regrettably turns political.
There’s a plethora of Robin Hood straight stories or based on films. Here’s an opinion of only a few I’ve seen.
ROBIN HOOD MEN IN TIGHTS (1993): It may not be the greatest Mel Brooks parody but it certainly is to a legion of merry fans. Cary Elwes leads the way in endless sight, sound, genre gags.
ADVENTURES OF ROBIN HOOD (1938): Australian’s own Tasmanian lothario Errol Flynn owns the role. Wide-eyed and certified pleasure machine, a true hero to the villagers in need. Classic!
WALT DISNEY’S ROBIN HOOD (1973): Comedic, retro family animation has Robin the kind hearted Fox & friends.
ROBIN HOOD PRINCE OF THIEVES (1991): Bryan Adams ballads aside, huge box office hit, fast action fun. Although Kevin Costner maligned for his accent, he’s surrounded by an amazing cast including Morgan Freeman, Christian Slater, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, Sean Connery and ultimate Nottingham sheriff portrayal by Alan Rickman.
ROBIN HOOD (2010): Auteur Ridley Scott directs mate Russell Crowe alongside Cate Blanchett in would-e epic adaptation I have seen only once. Good music, stylish action.
ROBIN HOOD (1991): Released almost simultaneously, not to be confused with flashy entertaining Costner mash-up, more traditional version has Patrick Bergin with the bow.
ROBIN AND MARIAN (1976): Looking at the later years focussing on romance between a pair meant to be together as portrayed by icons Sean Connery and Audrey Hepburn. Swoon.
ROBIN HOOD (Rated M – 116 min)
NOW SHOWING IN CINEMAS
Shane A. Bassett
