TFB Official Rating: (7.5/10)

The fifth collaboration between director Ridley Scott and award-winning Russell “Gladiator” Crowe explodes on the big screen as the much-anticipated Robin Hood. Based on a celebrated tale of English folklore that remains as familiar as fish and chips, Scott’s version is expected to have a plate full of comparisons.

The Plot

Set in Medieval England, this origin myth unfolds the story of Robin Longstride (Russell Crowe); a common yet gifted archer in King Richard the Lionheart’s (Danny Huston) army in the Third Crusade.

After the death of the king, Longstride endeavours to return to his native soil with his fellow soldiers, but encounter an ambush on the way from Sir Godfrey (Mark Strong), an English knight with French ancestry. Although Godfrey is temporarily driven out by Longstride and his band, the crowning of King John (Oscar Isaac), Richard’s vain younger brother, had enhanced Godfrey’s position to that of the Chancellor, giving him more incentive to terrorise civilians and strip the poor further of the little wealth which they had to begin with.

Godfrey’s notorious stirring and double-crossing personality leads to a war far greater than what was originally intended, though Longstride, supported by his archer companions, accumulate an apt force for the final battle on the south coast of England.

The Thoughts

The tales of Robin Hood were indeed childhood favourites of mine; and while I had foolishly missed the 1991 Prince of Thieves version, the Walt Disney classic had imprinted a fond memory during my pre-teen years, as had the books themselves. After hearing that another film was being made with its franchise – particularly with the ultimate combination of Russell Crowe and Ridley Scott - I eagerly counted down the weeks till its UK release.

Being my first time viewing Robin Hood with actual people – as opposed to foxes, lions and a snake – I was hesitant of what to expect from the characters. The quality of the film itself was breathtaking; director Scott pieces together impressive scenes of a late twelfth century England with authentic sounds, visions and appropriately-clad soldiers, nevertheless the plot itself I felt did not reach its potential in terms of capturing and intriguing the audience.

Considering this version is a “prequel” to the Robin Hood story most people may know of, it provides useful insight and thought to his character and the origins of the legend, however the portrayal of the events appeared somewhat messy and indefinite. The intention of the film had only ceased to be ambiguous at about midway; the first half lacking vivacity and clarity, although Crowe’s steady, subtle portrayal of the rebellious hero had undoubtedly endowed the audience with sufficient entertainment, as had the uplifting and comical Merry Men – a name which was not yet used during this period.

While the protagonists may receive little criticism, the villains I felt were conveyed inappropriately. Oscar Isaac’s annoying representation of King John had ruined his title, which would have otherwise been majestic – regardless of his vanity and arrogance. Even the lion in the animated Disney version had seemed appropriately intimidating for this character. Isaac appeared far too young and inexperienced to be taken seriously as King John, while Mark “Archy” Strong I believed had too ‘brute’ an appearance for the manipulating and merciless Sir Godfrey. He may well have suited the dim-witted, Cockney gang member in RocknRolla, but he certainly failed as a ruthless Medieval knight with an embarrassing French accent.

The film balances action, drama, romance and comedy astonishingly well, and although the fight scenes were as short-lived as the dialogue had lacked depth, it was Crowe’s usual, “man of steel” performance of an epic hero (besides his poor attempt at a Northern English accent) combined with Blanchett’s fervent yet charismatic depiction of Maid Marion that bring the characters and main storyline to life. Although the film has its flaws, it is certainly ‘hats off’ to Scott for a generally entertaining attempt at recreating the legend of one of the most-loved tales of England.

The Film Buzz Rating: (7.5/10)

UK Release Date: 12th May 2010

Director: Ridley Scott

Writer: Brian Helgeland

Links: IMDB, Official Site