Review: The Death of Robin Hood
In pop culture, Robin Hood is primarily known for robbing the rich to give to the poor with his band of outlaws. The image that typically comes to mind is a kind-hearted man in green, fighting against injustice by morally gray means. Michael Sarnoski‘s depiction of the bow-wielding outlaw in The Death of Robin Hood is the furthest thing from this image. Rather than showcasing the morally ambiguous nature of the legend, this film opens with a cold and absolute judgment: Robin Hood is no hero. He’s an outlaw who robbed and killed without remorse for a lifetime and told lies of heroism to get fools to join him in his crimes. The Death of Robin Hood is incredibly grim and atmospheric, but it explores themes of guilt, redemption, and mercy in an unforgettable way.
The story opens with an aged Robin Hood (Hugh Jackman) camping in lonely, foggy hills. He’s constantly pursued by the kin of countless people he put in the earth throughout his many years of murder and theft. Little John (Bill Skarsgård), a former member of Robin’s band of outlaws, reunites with Robin to propose a job. John’s wife, daughter, and property have been taken by men who uncovered him as a killer and a thief. However, the simple job of reclaiming John’s stolen land will bring about new enemies and start the cycle of revenge anew. Robin’s death wish becomes apparent through a gruesome struggle, as he charges headfirst into battle with whatever opponent appears the strongest. However, when Robin is brought within inches of the final respite of death, John saves him, to Robin’s despair.
Robin awakes in a priory on a secluded island, robbed of the violent demise he had wanted. Sister Brigid (Jodie Comer), the prioress, is was able to nurse him back to health. However, he has a long recovery ahead of him as he can barely walk and cannot even draw a bow. Shortly after Robin’s awakening, John’s daughter, Little Margaret (Faith Delaney) is brought to the priory. With Little Margaret newly alone, Robin is the only familiar face she can trust in a frightening world. Robin, assuming a false identity at the priory, begins to feel sparks of humanity shine through his exterior toward Little Margaret and the gentle prioress. Burdened by the guilt of his troubled past, the idyllic priory offers Robin a chance at redemption for his injustices.
