This robust made-for-TV film may not approach the caliber of the Errol Flynn version, but it's an improvement over Kevin Costner’s anachronistic star vehicle.
As 12th-century Norman rulers co-exist with conquered Saxons, Baron Daguerre (Jeroen Krabbe) and the Fourth Earl of Huntington (Patrick Bergin)-- soon to be known as Robin Hood – maintain a firm friendship. But once swaggering Sir Miles Folcanet (Jurgen Prochnow) sets his sites on the Baron’s extremely disinterested niece, Maid Marian (Uma Thurman), the days are peace are numbered. Accustomed to unfair Norman dictums, Robin nonetheless intevenes when Folcanet threatens to lop off the hand of Much the Miller (Daniel Webb) for poaching. Folcanet takes umbrage at Robin’s effrontery and forces the Baron to administer justice. Robin refuses to submit to unjust punishment -- even a token single stroke of the lash -- and forfeits his lands for his principles. The now-homeless Robin and his boon companion, Will Scarlet (Owen Teale), soon attract other rebels and outcasts, including boisterous wayfarer Little John (David Morrissey) and earthy cleric Friar Tuck (Jeff Nuttall). A born leader, Robin assumes command of Sherwood Forest's disenfranchised populace, who become adept at pillaging the Baron’s tax collectors. Disguised as a boy, Maid Marian catches up with the merry men, though she's happy to act like a girl once Robin wises up. Meanwhile, King John (Edward Fox) orders the Baron to make good on all the overdue taxes and Folcanet, who blames Robin for despoiling the woman he wanted to marry, steps up his efforts to capture the Prince of Thieves. The Baron’s guards eventually capture Marian, but Robin risks his neck to stop her wedding: Taking advantage of the All Fool’s Day procession, he challenges his enemies on their home court.
Writers Sam Resnick and John McGrath enrich the popular tale of Robin with fascinating historical details, and director John Irvin gives the action set pieces more visual flair than the average made-for-TV production. leave a comment --Robert Pardi
