Review of The Adventures of Robin Hood (1938) by Trevor R — 29 Mar 2013

On paper, this Robin Hood could easily be read as the most pompous, insufferable jerk imaginable, constantly belittling others and laughing at their misfortune. On screen, Errol Flynn brings a charming playfulness to the role that is an absolute miracle.

I love his performance, and I love this film. It's chock full of delightful characters, hilarious moments, and incredible action sequences. The sword fight choreography is seriously breathtaking (as fast and impressive as anything in the "Star Wars" prequels, but with a far greater sense of peril and excitement), and the vivid colors of the sets and costumes are just gorgeous.

There are times when the bad-guy killing feels excessive (Remember that guy on the ladder? Did they really need to shoot him in the back?), but the bloodless stylization of it all makes it much easier to accept (Personally, I like to believe he was just injured).

What a marvelous movie.