Review of Robin Hood: Men in Tights (1993) by Philip S — 18 Jul 2011

Mel Brooks' satirical take on Robin Hood is one of the best that tackles the famed figure. Having already taken on a similar role in The Princess Bride, Cary Elwes was a natural pick to play Robin Hood. The early scene in which he was in the prison with Asneeze (Isaac Hayes) father was hilarious. It was pretty obvious that Brooks was going after Kevin Costner's Robin Hood Prince of Thieves. Watching Robin's castle being taken away while Blinkin sits on the toilet is equally hilarious. And the musical numbers are worth a few laughs, too.

As funny as this movie is, parents should be warned that it isn't so family friendly, like the classic Errol Flynn rendition, Adventures of Robin Hood. This take on Robin Hood is more adult oriented. The scene in which Blinkin is sitting on the toilet with a "braille" version of Playboy is just one example of that. There's also the scene in which Maid Marian is in her tub, and gets up. It's hinted that all that's covering her is her hair, while she's wearing an iron chastity belt. Those are just a couple examples of the adult oriented material tossed in throughout the story. There are many more moments that might be unsuitable for younger viewers. So parents, please take note of this.

Robin Hood Men in Tights is a funny movie. Again, it's aimed more at older audiences, just like his other movies. Unlike his other movies, though, it's not his best. It is a funny movie in its own right. But in comparison to his previous works, it doesn't have the heart that his early works had. As a result, it's not a bullseye of a movie. But, it does at least hit the target as one of the best summer movies of all time.