Article:
Robin Hood: A Preview

In a land ruled by tyrants and plagued by poverty and hunger, one man rose above the others and became a hero and defender of the poor. Considered a legend, his was a story that has passed on through generations as early as the 13th century. His name is Robin Hood.

An English folklore hero, Robin Hood is regarded as one of our times’ most notable epitome of man’s never ending battle for freedom against tyranny and injustice. His inspiring tale gave hope to millions in dire need of a rescue from the binds of despondency and injustice. Although considered to be an outlaw, his exploits were of noble cause that benefited the needy. With his band of Merry Men, he stole from the rich and gave it to the poor, and he shed light to those amidst the darkness of paucity and despair. His crusades were told over and over all throughout history, from early written novels and poems up to modern audio visual masterpieces, constantly inspiring people from all walks of life and cultures.

There have already been a lot of film adaptations of Robin Hood’s swashbuckling adventures. Some notable films include the 1922 film “Robin Hood”, said to be the first motion picture of the tale to have a Hollywood premiere. Douglas Fairbanks starred in the lead role. With a budget of $1 million dollars, the film was considered as one of the most expensive film of the decade.

A remake, “The Adventures of Robin Hood”, was made in 1932, starring Errol Flynn in the lead role. The film was a blockbuster, with over $4 million in revenues at a time when average ticket price was less than 25 cents. The film, considered by many to be the best Robin Hood film, garnered three awards at the 11th Academy Awards.

The adventures of Robin Hood were again retold on the big screen after six decades; this time with Kevin Costner portraying the lead character. Directed by Kevin Reynolds, “Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves” featured a powerful cast, including Morgan Freeman, Christian Slater, and Alan Rickman, with Sean Connery appearing at the last part as King Richard I. Considered to be one of the best films of the 90s, it reciprocated the success of its predecessors, earning $390,493,908 after its worldwide release on June 1991. In addition, the film’s theme song, “(Everything I Do) I Do It for You” by Bryan Adams was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1991, and won the Grammy Award for Best Song Written for a Motion Picture, Television or Other Visual Media in 1992.