Thursday, July 22, 2010

Robin Hood Season 1


I decided I would change up the review a little tonight. Instead of reviewing a movie I am going to review  a TV series that I have been watching on DVD. This series takes a little different look at the Robin Hood legend with arguably the youngest version of Robin Hood. This is a light hearted romp for families and while a lot of people have criticized this series for historical inaccuracies. all I have to say is this is not a documentary not to mention that it is based on a LEGEND. This series gives you exhilarating if not outrageous action scenes, great British humor, and a great duo of nasty bad guys.

The chemistry between the cast is very fluid and they all seem to play so well off of each other. Jonas Armstrong plays Robin with a great flair and more importantly he is an endearing character for Robin Hood. Not too mention he plays so well off of his gang of outlaws. British newcomer Lucy Griffiths follows the newest suit with female roles that are no longer damsels in distress. She brings a strong character to Marian and spars verbally with anyone and everyone that tries to treat her like an unequal.

What really brings a strength to the cast is that of while there is a true goodness and likability in Marian and Robin, the opposite end of the spectrum is represented in the portrayals of the Sheriff of Nottingham and Guy of Gisborne. Keith Allen is able to immediately gives the viewer a feel of his corruptibility and is a great villain. At times he has flashes similar to that of Tim Curry and is so set on not only outsmarting Robin Hood, but is willing to do anything possible to keep control of the power he has currently, while looking to increase his power as well. Richard Armitage is the grunt of the villainry and is the one who does all the legwork in the evil plots of the Sheriff. They have also successfully added another layer with his longing and pursuit for Marian, which makes the dueling with Robin Hood all the more entertaining.

This series has some amazing sets that are really not what one would expect from a tv series. The forest areas are great and you truly feel like you are there. An interesting aspect to is the warmth through the lighting that is felt throughout not only all the small towns and villages, but also in the forest. While they then contrast this warmth with the cold, dark and feeling of a muggy castle. Which only helps to further play off the contrast of good versus evil. This show has memorable music that will find ways to stick into your head.

This is a very enjoyable series and it is one that is very addicting to watch. I find myself with just a desire to continue watching episode after episode. I even found myself dreaming last night with British accents. I am giving this tv series three buckets of popcorn out of five. The strong cast with great chemistry and the sets that one would not expect from a tv series. If you are in  the market and looking for a good, fun tv series with a lot of action then Robin Hood is the series for you to give a try.

-The Movie Man-

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