It’s been over 80 years since the film’s release, and yet it is still regarded as one of the best adventure movies of all time, with film fans ranking it at a perfect 100% on Rotten Tomatoes.
The Adventures of Robin Hood hit screens in 1938 as an epic swashbuckler film, with Robin Hood at the centre of its story and Hollywood greats playing each role. Errol Flynn plays the legendary Saxon knight and takes viewers on a journey as he fights battles in the absence of King Richard in England.
At the time of its release, the Robin Hood adaptation made waves within the industry and went on to receive four nominations at the 11th Academy Awards. Ever since it has been deemed culturally significant and a landmark film of the genre, which still lives up to film fans’ expectations.
One raving review states: “One of Hollywood’s Golden Age great adventure films. A little dated now. Great chemistry between the leads. Great action, great stunts, great archery. A must see.”
Another impressed viewer shared: “There’s something charmingly innocent about The Adventures of Robin Hood. It’s the story we’re all very familiar with, but with bright-coloured costumes and whimsical performances. Errol Flynn steals every scene he’s in with such bravado that you can’t help but believe he’s the legendary outlaw. This adaptation of Robin Hood definitely stands out among the crowd.
A critic summarised the family-friendly film’s combination of the classic and the modern filmmaking perfectly. They wrote: “The Adventures of Robin Hood has the fine sweep and action of the best silent days and all the sound and splendour of the modern screen. One of the season’s finest films.”
Its story begins when King Richard of England is captured and his untrustworthy brother Prince John is plotting to overthrow the throne. Of course, the much-loved saviour that is Robin Hood, the king of the Sherwood Forest, refuses to let this happen and rounds up his men to defend the king in his absence.
Along the way, he wins the heart of a kind Maid Marian, played by the legendary Olivia de Havilland, and awaits the return of the king as he accuses Prince John of treachery. Upon his arrival, the two join forces to fight for the crown and help in getting the king his rightful place back on the throne.
A critic put it quite simply when they said that this movie is “completely unabashed and utterly committed to delivering on its promise of adventure.” Others have agreed that despite its lack of special effects and modern technology, the artistry, paired with the acting and storyline, is “marvellous”.
Errol Flynn’s status as a heartthrob during the Golden Age of Hollywood helped to promote the film, thanks to his worldwide success and frequent on-screen partnerships with co-star Olivia de Havilland. He has long been remembered as the ultimate face of Robin Hood, and fans can’t help but praise their chemistry on camera.
One viewer commented: ” A terrific movie and even better than I remember. Errol Flynn is decidedly up to the challenge of playing daredevil, lover and scoundrel. And Olivia de Havilland always gives a great performance.”
To watch an instant classic and immerse yourself in the filmmaking of 1938, The Adventures of Robin Hood is available to rent now on Apple TV