THE DEATH OF ROBIN HOOD

THE DEATH OF ROBIN HOOD popped most every bubble I ever had about the legend of this man. I say most because he is still portrayed as an exceptional archer. Whew. I hope this is not a spoiler because many of us grew up learning about how this iconic, larger-than-life outlaw was portrayed. To say this movie was shocking to me is an understatement. The only redeeming part was that it starred Hugh Jackman, but don’t get too excited. Because Jackman indeed took a deep dive into his characterization, he was just about unrecognizable. My heart did not flutter as it usually does whenever Jackman is near. It was a tough watch on so many levels.

Jackman as Robin Hood was outstanding. He delivered a creative picture of a man lost and at the end of his rope. Through his facial expressions and physicality, he gave a memorable depiction of a man who was extremely violent while still possessing a shred of decency. It was a strange combination since he could change at the drop of a hat. These were all the best parts of the movie.

The problems were in the pacing, the editing, and the amount of very dark filming. The director, Michael Sarnoski (A QUIET PLACE: DAY ONE), needed to pay a bit more attention to these elements. This was not a horror movie. THE DEATH OF ROBIN HOOD is supposed to be a realistic, almost mystical look at how history fu**ed up the real, honest details. There were many moments when viewers might feel like saying out loud, “Should have, would have, could have.”

THE DEATH OF ROBIN HOOD also featured Jodie Comer and Bill Skarsgård. What a treat. Again, there was an enormous amount of acting talent gathered together to create this movie. They helped raise the bar even higher. Their acting chops are indeed as legendary as Robin Hood. It is a shame the film just didn’t rise to its full potential or to what everyone probably envisioned or hoped it would be.

THE DEATH OF ROBIN HOOD will leave audiences in a dark, quiet place, wondering and perhaps pondering over life choices. I have a feeling Jackman, Comer, and Skarsgård are doing the same thing.

THE DEATH OF ROBIN HOOD is streaming on HBO Max.