Review: Robin Hood

Ridley Scott is a thorough, entertaining and detailed director. This is highly evident as you watch his latest film, Robin Hood.

I had high hopes for a great movie-viewing experience...and I wasn't disappointed. Robin Hood is, so far, the best movie of the season. It is the typical spectacle-type production we have come to expect from Scott. He delivers a gritty, realistic world of medieval England that is not found elsewhere.

Russell Crowe is fabulous as Robin. He brings realism and humanity to a figure of folklore that dwells historically in rumors, innuendo, and myth. He is very comfortable in the role, and his dialogue with Cate Blanchett's Lady Marian is relaxed and natural. Crowe obviously enjoys working with Ridley Scott...and why not? The movies they create are usually phenomenal, and Robin Hood is no exception.

Cate Blanchett brings her cool demeanor and utmost effort to an un-regal Marian Loxley. Her screen presence alone is worth the cost of admission. In this role, Blanchett has a character unlike any other I have seen her play; and she handles herself well in portraying Marian as both confident and unsure. She brings a refreshing dichotomy to a typically subservient character role; and it is a joy to watch.

The supporting cast is wonderful from top to bottom. Notably, Mark Strong as Godfrey, Kevin Durand as Little John, William Hurt as Marshall, Oscar Isaac as Prince John, Scott Grimes as Will Scarlet, Alan Doyle as Allan A'Dayle, Matthew Macfadyen as a disgusting Sheriff of Nottingham, and the always phenomenal Max von Sydow as Sir Walter Loxley.

The editing was top notch as scenes flowed effortlessly from one to another. The cinematography was exactly what you expect from Ridley Scott with sweeping panoramas, colorful landscapes and delicate close-ups. Production design, sound design, battle choreography, costuming and set construction were all seamless. The entire production from top to bottom was just fantastic. Add in the stirring soundtrack from Marc Streitenfeld, and you have a beautiful, fun, robust and thoroughly enjoyable movie-going experience.

If you must miss one of this years' big movies, make sure that is ISN'T this one.

I will end up buying this on DVD. In the mean time, I think I'll go see this at least two or three more times!