THE DEATH OF ROBIN HOOD -- Not Your Father's Robin Hood

Review by Chadd Clubine

With more than 50 theatrical and made-for-TV adaptations of Robin Hood, it's rare for a new film to bring something truly fresh to the legendary outlaw. The Death of Robin Hood accomplishes exactly that by focusing on a chapter of the character's life that has largely been unexplored on screen: his final act. In many ways, you could watch nearly any previous Robin Hood adaptation beforehand and have it serve as a fitting prelude to this story. Writer-director Michael Sarnoski is an inspired choice to tell it. Through films like Pig and A Quiet Place: Day One, he has demonstrated a talent for crafting deeply human stories centered on complex characters. That sensibility allows him to reveal a side of Robin Hood audiences rarely see—one that is thoughtful, vulnerable, and every bit as compelling as the legendary hero they already know.

A24 appears to be embracing a more ambitious spending strategy lately, and The Death of Robin Hood is no exception. With a reported $20 million budget and a summer release window, it may face an uphill battle at the box office. Given the crowded marketplace, it wouldn't be surprising if the film struggles to turn a profit theatrically or has a relatively short run in theaters. That said, A24 clearly believes in the project, and it's encouraging to see the studio continue investing in distinctive, filmmaker-driven stories. The tagline, "He was no hero," suggests a more unconventional and morally complex take on the legendary outlaw—one that could challenge audience expectations and prove divisive among viewers. Even so, that same willingness to take risks may ultimately be what allows the film to develop a passionate following and achieve cult-classic status in the years to come.

While The Death of Robin Hood may be marketed primarily as a drama, don't let that label give you the wrong impression about its opening act. The film begins with a startling level of intensity, delivering violence that feels visceral and deeply immersive through both its striking visuals and unsettling sound design. The cinematography captures the harshness and brutality of its world in a way that recalls The Northman, making for an opening that is difficult to shake. After that explosive start, the film deliberately shifts gears and settles into a slower, more reflective pace. Viewers expecting the relentless intensity of the first act throughout may find themselves disappointed. However, those willing to embrace the film's measured storytelling and exercise some patience will be rewarded with a character-driven journey that builds toward a satisfying and emotionally resonant conclusion.

Michael Sarnoski draws remarkable emotional depth from his cast, resulting in performances that feel authentic and deeply lived-in. It may be difficult to definitively call this Hugh Jackman's finest work, but it unquestionably ranks among his strongest. Since Logan, Jackman has consistently gravitated toward roles that challenge expectations and highlight the breadth of his talent, and The Death of Robin Hood is another compelling example of that versatility. Bill Skarsgård is equally impressive, delivering a performance that is both memorable and nearly unrecognizable. His transformation speaks to his commitment as an actor and adds another layer of intrigue to the film. Jodie Comer is effective in her role, but the character itself feels somewhat underdeveloped. Given Comer's stature and proven range, the screenplay could have provided more opportunities for her to leave a lasting impression. One minor drawback is the film's dialogue mix. At times, it can be difficult to clearly understand what characters are saying or fully grasp certain narrative details on a first viewing. As a result, this may be a film that benefits from a second watch—particularly with subtitles—to better appreciate its nuances and fully absorb everything it has to offer.

It's best to approach The Death of Robin Hood with a clear understanding of what kind of film it wants to be. Between A24's reputation for character-driven storytelling and Michael Sarnoski's track record of crafting intimate, human narratives, this is a film that will likely resonate most with viewers who embrace its deliberate pace and reflective nature. In many ways, the film unfolds like a novel told from Robin Hood's perspective. This approach provides a deeper understanding of the man behind the legend, allowing audiences to connect with his flaws, regrets, and inner conflicts in a way that few adaptations have attempted. The result is a portrayal that makes Robin feel more complex and human than the larger-than-life figure audiences are accustomed to seeing.

Visually, the film is stunning. The cinematography frequently lingers on expansive landscapes, encouraging viewers to absorb the atmosphere and immerse themselves in the world around Robin. Combined with the restrained sound design, the experience often feels remarkably intimate, as if you're accompanying him on his final journey rather than simply observing it from a distance. The score is equally effective, arriving only when necessary and enhancing the film's most emotional moments without overwhelming them. Its careful placement gives those scenes additional weight, creating a lasting impact that lingers well after the credits roll. Much like the use of "On the Nature of Daylight" in Hamnet, the music understands precisely when to step forward and elevate the emotion of the story.

Overall, The Death of Robin Hood challenges long-held perceptions of the legendary character while ultimately rewarding viewers with a fresh interpretation unlike anything we’ve seen before. Hugh Jackman delivers one of the strongest performances of his career, further proving the range and depth he continues to bring to his work. The cinematography, sound design, and direction combine to create a world that feels immersive and fully lived-in, pulling the audience directly into Robin’s journey. It builds toward a final act that lands with real emotional weight—one that lingers well after the credits roll.

The Death of Robin Hood releases in theaters June 19th!

RATING: 4/5