The Adventures of Robin Hood

Rollicking technicolor tale of the legendary outlaw, regarded as the swashbuckler standard-bearer. The justice-minded Saxon knight battles the Normans, outwits evil Prince John, and gallantly romances Maid Marian. Grand Castle sets and lush forest photography display ample evidence of the huge (for 1938) budget of $2 million plus. Just entering his prime, Flynn enthusiastically performed most of his own stunts, including intricate swordplay and advanced tree and wall climbing. His Robin brims with charm and bravura. THe rest of the cast likewise attacks with zest: de Havilland, a cold, but ultimately sympathetic Marian; Rains's dastardly Prince John; and Rathbone's convincing Sir Guy to Robin's band of very merry men. Based on the many Robin Hood legends, as well as Sir Walter Scott's "Ivanhoe" and the opera "Robin Hood" by De Koven-Smith.