7 Epic Robin Hood Movies Through the Decades: From Classics to Modern Blockbusters

1. Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves

You can find this classic on iTunes or check the official Warner Bros. page.

I don’t remember reading anywhere that Robin Hood had an American accent or came back from the Crusades with a Moor, but that’s Hollywood for you. Actually, however loosely based on the legend, this is among the most enjoyable movies about Robin Hood, and it was a huge hit. It is particularly remembered for the theme song by Bryan Adams that dominated the charts for weeks, but the cast did a fantastic job. A big shout-out goes to Alan Rickman for his brilliant, scene-stealing performance as the evil Sheriff.

2. Robin Hood (1973)

Available on iTunes and the official Disney Movies site.

There’s no way such an iconic folkloric figure was ever going to be passed up by Walt Disney. This is classic Disney fare where the characters are all animals: Robin is a wily fox, and King John is a lion. Little John is a bear—who is just a few animation lines away from Baloo in The Jungle Book. We’ve got vultures, cute bunnies, chickens, snakes, and even a rhino. It’s a whole host of creatures unlikely to have ever set foot in Sherwood Forest, but it’s pure Disney magic. If you enjoy animated masterpieces, this one is a must-watch.

3. The Adventures of Robin Hood

Watch it on iTunes.

This may be one of the oldest Robin Hood movies, but for many, it remains the definitive version. Made in 1938 in glorious Technicolor, the title role is played by Errol Flynn. His performance is extremely well-regarded, with critics claiming it is one of his best films. It is a true swashbuckling tale that is simply good fun to watch. Olivia de Havilland plays a believable Maid Marian, while British stalwarts Claude Rains and Basil Rathbone make delicious villains as Prince John and Sir Guy of Gisbourne.

4. Robin Hood: Men in Tights

Find the comedy on iTunes.

Some say the ultimate compliment in movie circles is a spoof of a great movie. When that spoof is written and directed by Mel Brooks, you know it is going to be hilarious. The target here is Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves. Mel’s take includes a rabbi, hot tubs, mafia connections, and Roger Rees doing a star turn as the Sheriff of Rottingham. It's a perfect pick if you're looking for something lighthearted to watch with friends.

5. Robin and Marian

See the romance on iTunes.

The love between Maid Marian and Robin Hood has always been central to the story, but what if you want even more romance? This version beefs it up, taking inspiration from Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. While the story might be a little hard to swallow for some, the film is absolutely watchable just to see legends Sean Connery and Audrey Hepburn in the lead roles.

6. Robin and the 7 Hoods

Available on iTunes.

When you don’t want historical accuracy but just a feel-good film, this is a great offering. Technically, it is a mob story based on the legend, but it stays true to the classic ideal of Robin Hood. Set in Prohibition-era Chicago, it stars Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and features a thoroughly over-acted but excellent performance by Peter Falk.

7. Robin Hood (2010)

Catch Ridley Scott's version on iTunes or the official Universal Pictures page.

If there’s proof that the legend stands the test of time, it’s that major blockbusters are still being made. Directed by Ridley Scott and starring Russell Crowe, Cate Blanchett, and Matthew Macfadyen, it presents a grittier view of the story. It follows humble archer Robin Longstride as he becomes Robin Hood amidst the political turmoil of feudal England.

Top Robin Hood Film Adaptations:

We only have the legend of Robin Hood to work with, so it’s always interesting to see which direction filmmakers take. Although the basics remain the same, these movies continue to capture our imagination. How about you? How many Robin Hood movies have you seen, and which one is your absolute favorite?