New Series ‘Robin Hood‘ Draws Scrutiny for Ancient Liberties, But Offers Campy Entertainment
A new television adaptation of the classic tale, Robin Hood, starring Sean bean and featuring Jack Patten as Robin (referred to as “Rob”) and Lauren McQueen, has launched to mixed reviews, with critics noting it’s departures from traditional portrayals while acknowledging its potential for guilty-pleasure viewing. The series, currently available on MGM+ in the UK and Stan in Australia, presents a reimagining of the legendary outlaw’s origins.
The production addresses the historically unheroic connotation of the name “robin” by consistently referring to the protagonist as “Rob.” The series depicts a young Robin growing up alongside Hugh, who becomes a royal forester-a position described as “humiliating for a saxon”-and soon finds himself in conflict with Huntingdon and a treacherous fellow Saxon. The Sheriff of Nottingham, portrayed as ruthless, adds to the escalating drama, prompting “emotional acting” that the reviewer anticipates will improve with time.
Alongside the central conflict, the series introduces Priscilla (Lydia Peckham), the Sheriff’s daughter, characterized as a provocative figure, and the Spirit of the Greenwood, invoked by robin’s mother. While the pacing is described as slower than expected, the reviewer highlights the high quality of the CGI used to create the setting, including the castle, manor house, and village.
Future episodes are expected to introduce key characters such as Little John, Guy of Gisborne, Friar Tuck, and King john, as well as Eleanor of Aquitaine, played by Connie Nielsen. Despite acknowledging the series’ flaws, the reviewer concludes that Robin Hood is “terrible…subjectively? I couldn’t be having more fun,” suggesting it may appeal to viewers who embrace its campy nature. The reviewer posits the series may financially support Sean Bean’s future projects.Notably, the production avoids the use of wigs.
