As a fan of the Disney animated version and the Prince Of Thieves versions, but not the Russell Crowe "Robin Hood" fiasco, I was told I might enjoy this version. And enjoy it I did. This is the film from which the other Robin Hoods take their material. The acting power that is in this movie makes it worth the watch. Errol Flynn is Robin Hood. The playful and dashing hero set on keeping the government in check until the rightful king, King Richard, returns. His very cool and suave nature brings the confidence this cocky hero should have. The lovely Maid Marian is played by Olivia de Havilland. She is just as lovely as the character should be. and a huge kudos to her wardrobe designer. They really went all out to dress her in extravagance. Claude Rains is the terrible Prince John. He is as arrogant, demeaningly sophisticated, and vile a villain as you can want. His disregard for his country and self absorbance makes you hate him all the more. Last on my list, but certainly not least is Basil Rathbone. Besides being a fabulous actor he has one of my favorite names of all time. He is the violent anti-Robin Sir Guy of Gisbourne who would love nothing more than to hang our hero for his crimes.
The action in this epic tale is also very well done. The choreography of the fights is tight and doesn't feel forced. Which is an often difficult task in many older films. These action sequences take place in settings that are just as vivid as the actions that take place there. It is a very attractive movie, on a purely aesthetic point of view.
Instead of new "Robin Hood Begins" (What is should have been titled), They should have just remade this classic. That way we could have all of our favorite scenes from the others in a nice little package.
No comments:
Post a Comment