Directed by Michael Sarnoski (Pig, A Quiet Place: Day One) and distributed by A24, The Death of Robin Hood strips away the swashbuckling folklore to deliver a brutal, introspective revisionist drama. Starring Hugh Jackman as an aging, battle-worn Robin Hood and Jodie Comer as Sister Brigid, the film examines the toll of legend, violence, and the pursuit of redemption.

Pros

• Commanding Lead Performance: Hugh Jackman delivers a raw, deeply bruised performance that subverts the traditional "heroic outlaw" archetype. He plays Robin as a haunted, broken man consumed by the real-world weight of his past violence rather than a romanticized folklore icon.

• Jodie Comer’s Screen Presence: As Sister Brigid, Jodie Comer brings quiet grace, emotional anchor, and moral gravity to the story. Her chemistry with Jackman grounds the film's quieter, reflective moments.

• Atmospheric Direction and Cinematography: Director Michael Sarnoski brings his signature patient pacing and grounded storytelling. Shot on 35mm film, the visual direction relies heavily on grim, atmospheric lighting and naturalistic landscapes that make medieval England feel harsh and unsparing.

• Thoughtful Revisionist Take: Rather than leaning into action-heavy setpieces, the narrative treats the classic Robin Hood myth as a collection of exaggerated campfire tales. It provides a fresh, morally complex deconstruction of how violence turns into romantic legend.

Cons

• Deliberately Slow Pacing: Viewers expecting a fast-paced medieval adventure or high-stakes archery combat will likely feel underwhelmed. The narrative prioritizes internal conflict and quiet dialogue over action.

• Unforgivingly Bleak Tone: The film rarely breaks its grim, mournful mood. It is a somber character study about mortality and guilt, which can feel heavy or oppressive over its two-hour runtime.

• Underutilized Supporting Cast: While ensemble actors like Bill Skarsgård and Murray Bartlett offer solid performances, their screen time and character depth take a back seat to the central dynamic between Jackman and Comer.

The Verdict

The Death of Robin Hood is a moody, meditative character drama rather than a traditional action blockbuster. It is best suited for audiences who appreciate stripped-down, myth-deconstructing films like Unforgiven or Sarnoski's previous work on Pig.