Sword of Sherwood Forest DVD Review (1960)
Labels: robin hood
Sword of Sherwood Forest DVD Review (1960)
Synopsis: Naturally you’d expect Hammer Films to make a Robin Hood movie, and of course it would star Richard Greene, who played him so memorably on TV for five years. But, add none other than Peter Cushing as the Sheriff of Nottingham and then have it directed by Hammer ace Terence Fisher (Horror of Dracula), and you’ve got much more than just another swashbuckler. Robin and his Merry Men must go undercover when they learn of a plot to assassinate the Archbishop of Canterbury, and plenty of action and intrigue ensue. Beautifully shot in color and MegaScope, and featuring such reliable British actors as Nigel Green, Niall MacGinnis (Curse of the Demon), a young Oliver Reed and James Bond’s Q himself, Desmond Llewelyn, this is a rare and delightful chance for young and old alike to see a home-grown adaptation of England’s best-loved populist hero.
Review: In anticipation of the new Ridley Scott Robin Hood feature film we're getting some classic examples of the bandit of Sherwood Forest on DVD from Sony. This film, from 1960, stars the great Richard Greene, who actually played Robin on television for many years. This film was shot in MegaScope technology, which gives the color an odd hue, as many vintage films get.
This Robin Hood movie stands apart from the others, as its really a labor of love. You can see the great esteem for the character shine through in the performances. This plot goes way more in-depth than the average Robin Hood film, taking his Merry Men undercover to investigate injustice. Its a rare treat to get a vintage film like this on DVD.
Rating: Robin Hood Fans, Vintage Film Fans, Richard Greene Fans