Last Saturday, Doctor Who took on one of the greatest legends of the UK, Robin Hood. Robin Hood has fascinated historians and story lovers for centuries. Like King Arthur, no one can confirm or deny his real existence. There are many variations on the noble thief’s story. The number of movies, plays, and television shows made about the famous archer could fill a library. Many great actors have put on the hood over the years. These are my picks for what I think are best portrayals of Robin on the silver and small screens.
1. Jonas Armstrong, BBC’s Robin Hood
Armstrong brought the character to life in a raw and authentic way. He made Robin Hood believable and I really sympathized with his character. His portrayal of Robin Hood is one of the best I have ever seen.
2. Errol Flynn, The Adventures of Robin Hood
This movie is a classic and the actor is amazing. Errol Flynn said he was descended from mutineers (not proven) and he brought that swashbuckling flair to his Robin Hood role. Flynn’s Robin was a combination of the old English hero and the debonair actors of Errol’s own time period.
3. Kevin Costner, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves
I would like to say that I really liked this movie. Costner didn’t do a bad job of being a likeable Robin Hood. Costner’s Robin was a normal man who lived through terrible events. Instead of making him bitter, it made him a more just man.
4. Cary Elwes, Robin Hood: Men in Tights
This movie was silly and still makes me laugh to this day. Elwes’s Robin was charismatic, foppish, and delightfully entertaining. He was a refreshing change from the more serious roles. Cary Elwes made Robin a charming, funny character.
5. Sean Maguire, Once Upon a Time
Sean Maguire’s Robin is rough and tumble with a good mix of heroism. I love his role on the show; he is not only a noble thief but a father as well. He is a great archer and an even better dad. He drops his thieving ways to help the OUAT gang fight evil.
Stay tuned for my picks for King Arthur!
