The above description may strike some as odd, or a clash of discordant elements.Indeed one of the most frequent criticisms(misjudged, in my opinion) of 'Robin and Marian' is that it mixes elements that don't fit together. I suspect that many viewers expected a typical swash-buckling Robin Hood film, and judged this film by those standards. Such an expectation will lead to disappointment, since 'Robin and Marian' doesn't put an emphasis on action scenes(though there are a few)or serve as purely escapist entertainment.
Instead it is concerned with questions of heroism and ideals that one lives by, and how they can be out of sorts in a cruel world(this is something Robin has come to realize after years of serving Richard the Lionheart in the Crusades). But at the center of the story is the reunion of Robin and Marian, and the revelation that their love is what has ultimately endured. Sean Connery and Audrey Hepburn are radiant together, both turning in some of the strongest work in their careers(the scene where Marian examines Robin's scars and removes her nun's habit is especially lovely). The two great leads are strongly supported by some of the best English character actors.
My only quibble with the film is the rather rushed pacing of the last half; it could've benefited from taking a bit more development with preparation for the final battle and the sad yet affirming conclusion(those offended by the ending are clearly unfamiliar with the medieval Robin Hood ballads). But this doesn't hinder my enthusiasm for, or make me hesitate to recommend "Robin and Marian".
Instead it is concerned with questions of heroism and ideals that one lives by, and how they can be out of sorts in a cruel world(this is something Robin has come to realize after years of serving Richard the Lionheart in the Crusades). But at the center of the story is the reunion of Robin and Marian, and the revelation that their love is what has ultimately endured. Sean Connery and Audrey Hepburn are radiant together, both turning in some of the strongest work in their careers(the scene where Marian examines Robin's scars and removes her nun's habit is especially lovely). The two great leads are strongly supported by some of the best English character actors.
My only quibble with the film is the rather rushed pacing of the last half; it could've benefited from taking a bit more development with preparation for the final battle and the sad yet affirming conclusion(those offended by the ending are clearly unfamiliar with the medieval Robin Hood ballads). But this doesn't hinder my enthusiasm for, or make me hesitate to recommend "Robin and Marian".
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