Director: Sir Ridley Scott. Starring: Russell Crowe, Cate Blanchett, Mark Strong, Oscar Isaac, William Hurt, Danny Huston, Kevin Durand, Scott Grimes, Alan Doyle, Max Von Sydow.
The latest flick from Russ'n'Rid is a retelling of the origins of the British legend Robin Hood. Here, he is an archer in King Richard's (Huston) army named Robin Longstride (Crowe). Following the death of his King he and his men return to England, where Robin takes on the identity of Robert Loxley. Meanwhile Sir Godfrey (Strong) is plotting with the King of France to seize England.
Many have complained about the story not being the traditional Robin Hood vs. the Sheriff of Nottingham (indeed the Sheriff appears only a handful of times). To which I say 'bollocks'. Why should we have to watch effectively the same story over, and over again. I, for one, found this story engaging and a nice change from the traditional story everyone is so familiar with. Perhaps if there is a sequel that tackles Robin's fight against the Sheriff and King John people will be happy, but I imagine they will attack the film for being 'unoriginal'...
Anyway, moving back to the review, Russell Crowe gives a good performance. Though his accent does wander around somewhat (and, yes, there are Irish hints in there). Blanchett also does well as a tough, working Marion. I particularly enjoyed Max Von Sydow's turn as Sir Walter Loxley. The film also contains much humour, especially from the Merry Men-to-be (Durand, Grimes and Doyle).
In short, then, Robin Hood is an enjoyable film. It perhaps doesn't have the heart of 'Gladiator', the film it will always be compared with rightly or wrongly, but is good nonetheless.
★★★★☆
