‘Robin Hood (Extended Director’s Cut)’ macho but effective

Cert 12, 134 mins, Action/Romance

The classic English tale features Russell Crowe and Cate Blanchett in a story of love and politics in the 12th century.

Available as a director’s cut with 16 minutes of previously unseen footage, ‘Robin Hood’ is a thunderous new opening chapter in the legend of the 12th century folk hero.

Shot with director Ridley Scott’s typical bombast, this incarnation juxtaposes spectacular battle scenes with romantic interludes, political intrigue and melancholic flashbacks.

It’s unabashedly macho and predictable with an inevitable battle cry for Crowe to rally the troops into action: Gladiarcher, if you will.

Crowe’s accent roams the British Isles depending on who he is acting opposite, which is distracting, but Blanchett is luminous with an unshakeable Nottingham burr.

Strong doesn’t overplay his villain with flecks of humour courtesy of Mark Addy’s mead-soaked Friar Tuck.

Rating: 4/5.