Robin Hood

Summary:
Birth of a legend. Following King Richard's death in France, archer Robin Longstride, along with Will Scarlett, Alan-a-Dale and Little John, returns to England. They encounter the dying Robert of Locksley, whose party was ambushed by treacherous Godfrey, who hopes to facilitate a French invasion of England. Robin promises the dying knight he will return his sword to his father Walter in Nottingham. Here Walter encourages him to impersonate the dead man to prevent his land being confiscated by the crown, and he finds himself with Marian, a ready-made wife. Hoping to stir baronial opposition to weak King John and allow an easy French take-over, Godfrey worms his way into the king's service as Earl Marshal of England and brutally invades towns under the pretext of collecting Royal taxes. Can Robin navigate the politics of barons, royals, traitors, and the French?

Review:
Before watching this movie you have to set aside everything you know about "Robin Hood". This was quite a different take on the normal "Robin Hood" figure that we've all come to know over the years. I think it was still quite an enjoyable rendition of the story behind the name and well put together. Russell Crowe brings a strong sense of "Gladiator" to the movie in the action scenes which proved yet again to be quite effective at keeping the audience's attention. Crowe stands out from the other actors involved, however, Cate Blanchett plays a nice role as Marion Loxley, who proves to be a little rougher than previous renditions. This movie definitely had its downsides but overall very watchable and I certainly enjoyed it. I wouldn't throw it to the top of your Netflix queue but worth checking out if you're at a loss for movies. I still would prefer Robin Hood: Men in Tights - which should find its way to the top of your queue.