Today it is the 29 year anniversary of Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves being released, 14th June 1991.The story as we all know is based on the English folk tale of Robin Hood, that originated in the 12th Century.
The Third Crusade is well and truly underway, and Richard the Lionheart, England's King away in France. With Richard away, Sheriff Of Nottingham (played by Alan Rickman) seizes on the opportunity to rule the land. He is accompanied in doing this by his cousin Guy Of Gisbourne (played by Michael Wincott), and a witch, by the name Mortianna (played by Geraldine McEwan). Robin Of Locksley (played by Kevin Costner), has gone off to fight in the crusade, leaving his father Lord Locksley (played by Brian Blessed), at home at Locksley Castle. Nottingham has been trying to gain the support of Robin's father, but being a true supporter of Richard, will not support Nottingham's claim to the country. This brings on an attack on Locksley Castle by Nottingham's men and the staff and Lord Locksley are killed and the Locksley Castle destroyed, while Lord Locksley's name is discredited for allegedly, worshiping the dark spirits and turning from his Christian beliefs.
Meanwhile over in Jerusalem, Robin and his comrade Peter Dubois have been captured, and are being held in a prison. They manage to break free from Ayyubid prison guards and help to save the life of a Moor called Azeem Edin Bashir Al Bakir (played by Morgan Freeman). In the escape, Peter is badly wounded, but sacrifices his life so Robin can escape, after getting Robin to swear to protect his sister Marian (played by Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio).
Robin manages to make his return to English shores, he is accompanied by Azeem. Azeem has promised Robin that he must repay the debt, the debt of life for Robin's actions in the prison, where he most certainly saved Azeem's. When Robin returns to his home to Locksley Castle, he finds that the castle is in ruins, and his father dead. He is told of the attack by Nottingham's men by Duncan (played Walter Sparrow), his father's servant. Duncan has had his eyes taken in the attack, but tells Robin everything. Robin then goes in search of Marian to tell her of Peter's demise. While with Marian, the Sheriff's forces turn up, making Robin flee, he flees to Sherwood Forest where he encounters a band of outlaws led by John Little (played by Nick Brimble).
The movie had very mixed reviews, with Morgan Freeman and Alan Rickman being praised and Rickman winning a BAFTA for Best Actor In A Supporting Role, but the screenplay, overall movie and Kevin Costner's performance being criticised. One of the big successes to come was the theme tune written exclusive for the movie, (Everything I Do) I Do It For You was performed by Bryan Adams. It was a massive success throughout the World and topped most charts, in the UK staying at number 1 for a record 16 weeks.
I liked this movie and i think that the criticism is very harsh, yes i can see why the performances of Alan Rickman and Morgan Freeman being praised for good reason, both were excellent. I also thought that the screenplay was good, Kevin Costner was far from poor and i enjoyed it and have seen it more that a few times. I also enjoyed the role played by Christian Slater, he played Will Scarlet. If you haven't seen it at all or not for a while, then find a way to watch and give it a go. Look out for the uncredited cameo right at the end! Also just to add that the critics criticism did not stop the film grossing over $390 million worldwide and making it the second highest-grossing movie of 1991. only being beaten by Terminator 2: Judgement Day, while beating The Silence Of The Lambs, JFK and Cape Fear in the process.
Comments