I used to think this Robin Hood was fun but overlong. However, on my third rewatch, I've come to put it on par with the more celebrated Errol Flynn version, though the two movie have different tones and different strengths.
Both movies are visual feasts. The Flynn film has its rich Technicolor look, but the Fairbanks film is clearly influenced by 19th century painting and romanticism, especially in those gorgeous wideshots of the beautiful sets. It helps to sell the mythical feel of the story.
Speaking of myth, I love how straightforward this version of Robin Hood is. No postmodern "deconstructions," no cynicism-- it's a heroic story in which chivalry, loyalty, and love are celebrated (even if-- being a myth-- it absolutely isn't historically accurate, particularly in its idealized portraits of King Richard and the Crusades-- but once again, it's a myth, not a documentary).
Lastly, Fairbanks is excellent, though I like his performance better when he's Huntingdon, the jolly but more dignified knight, rather than his alter ego Robin Hood. Fairbank's Robin is a bit grotesque, skipping, grinning, and generally acting like a coked up elementary schoolboy. It doesn't kill the movie, but it is a bit jarring.
Still, great movie. Maybe Fairbanks finest epic.
Both movies are visual feasts. The Flynn film has its rich Technicolor look, but the Fairbanks film is clearly influenced by 19th century painting and romanticism, especially in those gorgeous wideshots of the beautiful sets. It helps to sell the mythical feel of the story.
Speaking of myth, I love how straightforward this version of Robin Hood is. No postmodern "deconstructions," no cynicism-- it's a heroic story in which chivalry, loyalty, and love are celebrated (even if-- being a myth-- it absolutely isn't historically accurate, particularly in its idealized portraits of King Richard and the Crusades-- but once again, it's a myth, not a documentary).
Lastly, Fairbanks is excellent, though I like his performance better when he's Huntingdon, the jolly but more dignified knight, rather than his alter ego Robin Hood. Fairbank's Robin is a bit grotesque, skipping, grinning, and generally acting like a coked up elementary schoolboy. It doesn't kill the movie, but it is a bit jarring.
Still, great movie. Maybe Fairbanks finest epic.