STORYLINE: Grappling with his past after a life of crime and murder, Robin Hood finds himself gravely injured after a battle he thought would be his last. In the hands of a mysterious woman, he is offered a chance at salvation. (IMDb)

    In 1936, Errol Flynn had his adventure as Robin Hood inThe Adventures of Robin Hood.  When 1973 came around Disney animated Robin Hood.  In 2010, Russell Crowe took on the iconic role. Now, it is Hugh Jackman’s turn, as the notorious outlaw, in The Death of Robin Hood.

    The stereotypical Robin Hood story, is the one where he steals from the rich, and gives to the poor.  It’s the classic outlaw story that I, and most I assume, grew up with.  The Death of Robin Hood fast forwards that classic tale to the end of the outlaws life, as he reflects on deeds done as a criminal. Ius a different, and unique, slant, on a classic story.  

    This take on the outlaw is not the adventure flick, as previous adaptations. Outside of a minor opening battle sequence, the movie trades the adventures for the dramatics.  

   The Death of Robin Hood still remains a period piece.  It has the costumes, and sets.  They’re not lavish, like you would find in a Merchant Ivory productoion.  They are gritty, as they fit the story.

    The Death of Robin Hood becomes a textbook period drama. The central charecter goes through a moral conflict, tensions rise and fall, and, in its on way, the film, has family dynamics. There’s plenty of metaphors throughout, as well.  

    The concept of the film was there, the execution was mediocre.  In 2015, Ian McKellan started in a movie called Mr Holmes. It was a similar concept as the Death of Robin Hood, just about Sherlock Holmes.  Mr Holmes hit the mark. 

    The Death of Robin Hood was a mediocre film, with a good concept. In the end, it was a cookie cutter. period piece.

    Until next time, I will see you at the movies!