The Death of Robin Hood is a bold, brutal reimagining that tears the cosy legend apart, and rebuilds it into something surprisingly human. This is Robin Hood as you have never seen him before in a dark action-adventure drama swapping heroic swashbuckling for a brooding meditation on violence, guilt and redemption.
Hugh Jackman embodies an ageing, wounded Robin, a far cry from the merry outlaw of folklore. After a lifetime of crime and murder, he is rescued by mysterious Sister Brigid (Jodie Comer), whose compassion offers him a possible route towards salvation. Bill Skarsgård’s Little John, meanwhile, draws Robin back towards the consequences of his violent past. The plot shifts from savage survival and revenge to quieter questions about mortality, forgiveness and whether a notorious man can change.
Michael Sarnoski’s direction is strikingly atmospheric: cold, windswept landscapes, stark natural light, viciously realistic combat and mournful folk music create a grim medieval world, while changing aspect ratios visually reflect Robin’s emotional transformation. The cast are all great Jackman delivers a rugged, vulnerable performance after The Greatest Showman, Comer brings intensity after Free Guy, and Skarsgård adds menace following the global hit It. Critics have praised the film’s ambition, visuals and performances, some calling it bold, brutal yet surprisingly sensitive. Expect something thoughtful, uncompromising and refreshingly different.
If you enjoyed Unforgiven (1992) and The Last Duel (2021), then you’re likely to enjoy The Death of Robin Hood:
