Another adaptation of the old English folklore hero. This time Russell Crowe and Cate Blanchett lead the story of how the outlaw came to be. The story starts with Robin Longstride, his original name before becoming an outlaw, fighting in the last battle of a ten year long Crusade for King Richard. This Crusade has proven exhaustive for the troops as well as for England in resources. As the battle is about to finish the King is killed and Robin uses the opportunity to make his way back home to England. Through lies and deceit he becomes the son of one of the nobles and Marian's husband. His deceit is eventually discovered but he is able to rally all the disgruntled nobles of England to fend off a French invasion. Regardless the new and incompetent King John declares him an outlaw for his deceit.
The story is well told and the acting if of expected high quality from all the A-list actors involved. It is a refreshing change of pace to see the story told in a gritty and non-romantic perspective. You will not see any Merry Men wearing leotards on this movie. No cheesy archery tricks. The only negative about this movie is the length of it. Its only 140 minutes, but the pace of it at times makes it seem like a 3 hour movie. The fight scenes are great, but there are a few too many plotlines going on and it becomes exhausting by the end.
Verdict: Great adaptation of a classic story. Slow pace at times and lengthy. (3 out of 5)
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