Through The Rear Window: MOVIE REVIEW … ROBIN HOOD

Saturday, May 15, 2010

MOVIE REVIEW … ROBIN HOOD

MOVIE REVIEW …

ROBIN HOOD

Ridley Scott seems to be the master of re-invention. Putting scares back into science fiction with Alien and returning big screen epics with Gladiator, the British director's interpretation of classic genres have kept him in good stead. Robin Hood continues his skilful trait with a grittier take on the famous legend. Along with Russell Crowe, their fifth teaming finds both with the same energy which propelled their first movie to grandiose heights.

Fighting in the Third Crusade alongside King Richard the Lionheart, Robin Longstride (Russell Crowe) is a soldier of valour. After the King dies in battle, he returns to the English village of Nottingham to return the fallen ruler's crown to the royal family. There he meets Sir Godfrey (Mark Strong), a treacherous French agent in the employ of the cowardly Prince John (Oscar Isaac). With the help of village local Marion (Cate Blanchett) and his band of merry men, Robin aims to defeat the looming French army and protect England's borders as only its finest archer can.

It's great seeing Ridley Scott back in form after a fallow '90's period. Where his lesser films suffered from being too weak to support his vision, his recent slate have ably kept up with his directorial flourishes. Robin Hood is no exception with a mostly fine blending of myths and rough reality forming a satisfying adventure. All of the elements audiences know from previous versions of the story are here and adhered to quite faithfully. Making this one stand out are the characterisations of its well known heroes and villains as their motivations become better defined.

Those fearing a drab and serious interpretation shouldn't worry as Scott avoids becoming too heavy handed with the material. Whilst the sweeping battle scenes are marvellous to view, the quieter moments also shine with Crowe and Blanchett making an excellent pairing with spirited performances matching the energy of the action sequences. The story could have been tighter perhaps with some scenes suffering from a lack of focus and one too many characters. This doesn't spoil the overall enjoyment too much however, with the viewer receiving a bit more than they'd expect from Robin Hood's oft told exploits.

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Although it may be difficult to erase the rosy image of Errol Flynn as the emerald archer, this new Robin Hood is a more than worthy replacement. Mixed with some interesting characters and perfectly pitched acting, it adds another fine coda to an enduring legend of English folklore.

Move Review Rating 8 / 10