Review of Robin Hood: Men in Tights (1993) by Patrick F — 11 Jun 2011

Ok, so anything with Cary Elwes is bound to have it's funny moments. The man can't help but be humourous. Robin Hood Men in Tights is no exception.

Robin of Loxely has been on the crusades fighting the good cause until capture. When he escapes (and subsequently swims back to England) he returns to find his home a bit different than he left it. For one, his castle has been taken due to back taxes. With some friends he meets along the way, he decides to fight against Price John and the Sheriff and their injustices against him and the townspeople of Sherwood Forest. He also meets the acquaintance of Maid Marian and has a few more goals come to mind with the meeting. And he'll do it all in tights.

Characters:

Cary Elwes as Robin Hood.

Richard Lewis as Prince John.

Roger Rees as Sheriff of Rottingham.

Amy Yasbeck as Maid Marian of Bagel (pronounces Bag-elle).

Dave Chappelle as Ahchoo.

Mark Blankfield as Blinkin.

Eric Allan Kramer as Little John.

Matthew Porretta as Will Scarlet O'Hara.

Isaac Hayes as Asneeze.

Tracey Ullman as Latrine the Witch.

Patrick Stewart as King Richard.

Dom DeLuise as Don Giovanni.

Dick Van Patten as The Abbot.

Mel Brooks as Rabbi Tuckman.

Megan Cavanagh as Broomhilde.

Brian George as Dungeon Maitre d'.

David DeLuise as a Villager.

I like anything with Cary Elwes, I think he is hilarious and he did a great job of playing Robin in this movie. Maid Marian on the other hand I could take or leave as she really didn't add anything for me despite being a main character. I did like all the side characters, they were so varied that they were hilarious. Blinken, the blind character was funny, but I can see where he would have the potential to offend people.

The whole plot is the general Robin Hood story so there's nothing new there. The new part is in the comedy that's brought into it. There are some odd characters that serve the funny aspects of this movie quite well. That being said the humour is more adult as there is sexual innuendo for some of the jokes. While this movie is quite funny, it does have some groan worthy jokes that lower it a bit. Some things I just couldn't find entirely funny and wish they would have left some of the jokes out to make the other ones more special.

A funny movie and definitely one that could probably be considered a classic. Perfect for watching on a rainy day where all you need is a little comedy.

Review by M. Reynard 2011.