According to the Internet Movie Database the character of Robin Hood has been portrayed 112 different times. Yet it is not too far a reach to say that none do it better than Errol Flynn in The Adventures of Robin Hood. With swashbuckling, drama, adventure and romance this film has something for everyone.
This was one of the early films recorded in Technicolor and no other film displays the brilliance of this filming technique better then The Adventures of Robin Hood. It is amazing that this film, having been made nearly 75 years ago, can stand its own to even the great films of the HD era. The beautiful outdoor sets and brilliant use of color in both the set design and costumes makes this one of the most enjoyable films in the history of motion pictures to just sit back and enjoy.
Michael Curtiz’s adaptation of the story of Robin Hood goes far beyond a movie that simply looks good on the screen. Errol Flynn is transformed into the great hero of the English Saxon, yet this Robin Hood fights for the rights of his people through simplicity and sincerity. As you watch this portrayal of Robin Hood you do not get the sense that there are 300 pages of back-story motivating his actions, just simply right here and now, and for this Robin Hood that is all that matters.
This simplicity is found throughout the script. It is first seen when we see Robin Hood march into Prince John’s banquet and he throws the illegally poached deer onto the table in front of the Prince. It is also seen when Robin Hood enters the Prince’s archery contest disguised simply by pulling his hat down low. This simplicity helps the viewer to just enjoy the story and not worry about any psychological underpinnings of this great hero.
The Adventures of Robin Hood is a fun adventure that every film lover will walk away from enjoying. The picture is beautiful, the action is realistic, the romance authentic and the story enjoyable.
Things to Watch For as you view The Adventures of Robin Hood:
- The use of Technicolor is brilliant in this film. Look for all the use of contrasting colors and brightly lit sets. Coupled with the brilliant score by Erich Wolfgang Korngold, this is a film to simply sit back and enjoy!
- As is typical in many studio era films, watch for performances by strong actors in supporting roles: specifically Olivia de Havilland as Maid Marian and Claude Rains as Prince John.
- Many of the special effects and action sequences in this film were performed by Errol Flynn himself. Watch for the brilliant sward play by Flynn and the high-risk maneuvers he was able to pull off. Also look for all of the in-camera special effects (especially during the archery tournament).
- Something to consider: Is this film too simple? Did it leave you wanting more from the story? Did you want more back-story? Did the story feel a bit over-the-top or unbelievable?
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