Robin Hood(2010)- User Reviews

Solidarity is the key word when it comes to the 2010 version of Ridley Scott's "Robin Hood". From the captivating screenplay, to the provocative settings and the subliminal performances, this newer version of "Robin Hood" has it all. Far be it for me to argue, but the scenery as a whole was exactly what I would've imagined. The opening scenes left an impression on me by starting out as we explore Robin's (Russell Crowe) long awaited return to England from the Crusades led by King Richard the Lionheart (Danny Huston). The plot stands on its own merits as it yearns for our attention and keeps the outcome of the story fresh and while following the tradition of the legendary myth of the classic tale.
This movie sadly is full of many flaws that could've easily been avoided if taken into complete consideration. The principal Achilles Heel stems from the lack of anything memorable. Some of the scenes in the movie could've been clearly edited out as it goes on way too long and at many times it feels rather aimless and lost which also churns the characters into Medieval Fair caricatures with no emotions to build on.
It's sad really because when you look at the three principal leads (Russell Crowe, Cate Blanchett and William Hurt) who are all Oscar winners in the past and yet, I can't give too much credibility to their performances because they leave little impression knowing what these talented thespians are capable of. The feeling of drastic measure spawn on by corruption and greed that has manifested in the town of Nottingham and England as a whole and the epic quest to put a stop to this debacle never quite strikes a right cord.
The screenplay is not very supportive either. By adding morality to the story, and incorporating the myth with a tiresome liberal agenda, has watered down the legend that is Robin Hood to an all-time low.
For these two major setbacks, the efforts of Ridley Scott work in both past and present makes this movie more diluted and leaves you wondering, what is it I just saw? In the final showdown, the battle scenes camera shots were executed in slow motion making it flat and never makes the effort to stir some emotions while the fights are happening. It's a shame because the fight scenes were brilliantly choreographed.
The amazing thing about "Robin Hood" is that people who've seen this movie will compare it to another Russell Crowe vehicle "Gladiator". If people believe that they are out on a limb because Crowe's performance does not mesmerize you in any way. this version of Robin coming back from fighting with the Crusades and then trying fight a war in his own country feels more like a recycled version of Scott's "Kingdom of Heaven". Sure the similarities are there, but "Robin Hood's" delivery never fully ignites any kind of spark or charisma like "Kingdom of Heaven" or "Gladiator" does.