Robin Hood (1973)

 

Genre: Adventure/ Fantasy 

Time: 1h 23mins

Director:  Wolfgang Reitherman

Quick Summary: The story of the legendary British outlaw portrayed with the characters as anthropomorphic animals.

There's something just so swoon-worthy about this version of Robin Hood.

When I say I love the Disney Classics I mean this because this is one of the most charming. I will always be nostalgic over this as it is a childhood favourite of mine, but for something so simple it is so good. With how short this is, the story is told so perfectly, even with the additions of some sillier moments but even those just make the experience so much more wonderful. 

Going onto the animation, sure it's not the best Disney has done but it is certainly charming. I personally loved how rough it looks in some places, and we actually got some stunning backgrounds. The colours used in this is what makes this look so pretty, soft greens, browns and reds are used throughout and they all meld together so smoothly. Visually this is very pleasing to look at. Especially during the scenes that are set in the forests, which usually are the prettiest. 

I can't get over just how sweet this story is in a lot of places, and to be honest how dark it is too. Though it manages to balance both these sides so that it's not upsetting to kids they actually get to learn about situations like this and more importantly understand it. It shows the truth of why Robin Hood was stealing from the rich, there are intense fights that could potentially be a bit too scary for kids, and scenes of people in town helping each other. 

A lot of the romantic scenes between Robin Hood and Maid Marian I simply adored, they are adorable together and I could have just watched them for hours. Robin Hood, he is just absolutely loveable. How could you hate him, seriously? He just oozes with charm throughout the whole film and is one of my favourite Disney Leads. One of the first scenes where he robs the villain whilst being dressed as a woman is one of my favourite moments because that is just pure fun to watch.

Even though the villain was honestly a bit silly, I enjoyed him. It was pretty fun to watch this man-child throw tantrums, bawl like a baby and just flap about when things went wrong. It shows kids what a "Bad Guy" is without them being too terrifying. But, with this guy came along his sidekick who was honestly so funny and how they used him was so clever. So this sidekick being a snake, they'd do scenes where they animated him to look as if he had crossed his "arms" by using his body, use him as a slapstick element, and pure silly shenanigans as he tries to warn his master about what is going on.

To put this simply, this film is a good time. It's so fun and silly and heartwarming. You really couldn't hate this film even if you tried. I adore this absolute gem of a film and it deserves so much more love. Sure it's not Historically accurate, but who cares. 


10/10


"Robin Hood: Rob? Tsk tsk tsk. That's a naughty word. We never rob. We just sort of borrow a bit from those who can afford it.

Little John: Borrow? Boy, are we in debt."


"Clucky: Absence makes the heart grow fonder.

Marian: Or forgetful."


"Prince John: One more hiss out of you uhm Hiss. And you are walking to Nottingham.

Hiss: [to himself] Snakes don't walk, they slither. Hmph. So there."

Comments

  1. I vaguely remember watching this as a kid.
    Sadly, the only Robin Hood I can recall clearly is Men in Tights xD

    I regret nothing.

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