Customer Reviews:
Enjoyable enough if you're happy with second rate Disney animation.......2008-01-31
Kids probably won't be as critical, or be as concerned about the dramatic decline in quality of animation or screenplay from a once very prestigious stable. Following on from the altogether better Jungle Book, Robin Hood takes a similarly fun and loose look at this classic tale, with another musical screenplay with plenty of gags and laughs. It is a long way from the mannered and precise screenplays of the early to mid Disney classics, and the animation, as it was in JB, is fluid and lively at best, but has none of the charisma or magic of the classic Disneys. This one was going to have to come up with some outstanding songs and voicework if it was to match the memorably exuberant Jungle Book. But it didn't.
The foxiest Maid Marian ever!.......2007-10-07
This was the first film I ever saw at the cinema, way back in 1973 when I was a small boy (when I did not know or care about aspect ratios). I used to live near Sherwood Forest so this film and the legend of Robin Hood were, and still are, very special for me.
It is great to see this film again on DVD in a re-mastered special edition. I found the picture and sound quality to be very good indeed even though I watched it on a small portable player. The film features some excellent actors doing the characters' voices - Peter Ustinov and Terry Thomas are perfect as Prince John and Sir Hiss and Phil Harris is a cool Little John even though this character seems to be a bit of a rehash of Baloo, the bear from Disney's version of The Jungle Book.
The animals chosen to play the human characters are an excellent choice. Robin Hood is a cunning fox and Maid Marian is of course a sexy vixen (Monica Evans has one of the most beautiful voices you will ever hear) and The Sheriff of Nottingham is a greedy fat wolf. A special mention must also be given to country singer Roger Miller as Alan-A-Dale (a rooster in this film) who narrates the tale and provides several of the songs.
The extras on this disc include a couple of fun games which younger children will enjoy and an unused alternative ending, albeit in storyboard form. I think it is a matter of opinion whether or not this ending would have been a better one than the one they actually used. I personally think this alternative ending is a bit dark compared to the tone of the rest of the film but it is interesting to be able to see it all the same.
To summarise Disney's Robin Hood, I would say that it is a great story with a host of wonderful characters, excellently voiced, and featuring some catchy songs that will have you singing along or whistling. This is my favourite Disney movie and it is still one of my favourite films of all time. If you have not seen it, it is definitely worth checking out - especially in this superb DVD version.
Ye Olde Entertainment........2007-08-20
Not having seen this film since I was 7, and missing most of it when it was last on TV earlier this year, I jumped at the chance to buy this on DVD and I wasn't disappointed.
The film itself, while the sketchy-type, with incomplete backgrounds and reused animation doesn't have the look of something from a completed studio film, but it's the charm of the character of Robin, as a fox as well as lots of other animals taking on the roles associated with the tale that captures your attention. It's quite funny as well, and one of my fave lines is: 'seize the fat one!' and the chase that follows it, :D.
Songs in this, especially 'Love' is quite good and memorable while the others are amusing more than anything. The plot is good and all in all, it's an entertaining film 7/10.
Extras, which include an alternate ending which is a little frightening at first when our hero appears to be in trouble is interesting to see, as is the Micky shorts(Ye Olden Days) and one of the games, Rescue Maid Marian(which may seem a bit confusing until you get the hang of it) and a picture gallery of conceptual art among other stuff. I'd also give these a 7/10 too.
Overall, a satisfying SE DVD.
Fantastic Disney fun.......2007-06-08
Really great film in its own right - but the improved edition makes it more fun and better to watch, and this time, you can't wear to video out!
Great for kids, tenns and adults,
Amazon.co.uk Review
A minor classic from Disney, this 1973 all-animal, all-animated musical version of the familiar story of Robin Hood is more charming than one might expect. Perhaps it's the warm, chummy take on key relationships within the legend--the way Robin Hood (Brian Bedford) gets twitterpated whenever the subject of Maid Marian (Monica Evans) comes up or the way best pal Little John (Phil Harris voicing a variation on his own Baloo from The Jungle Book) admonishes the Sherwood Forest hero, "Aw, Rob, why dontcha just marry the girl?" (Then, of course, there's the canny "casting" of the romantic leads as foxes: Robin the sly one and Marian the, well, foxy one.) The rest of the vocal cast is lively and eclectic: Peter Ustinov, Andy Devine, Terry Thomas, George Lindsey. Roger Miller provides the songs and voice for the minstrel character Allan-A-Dale. The film is ably directed by Wolfgang Reitherman, whose decades of work in Disney's animation division helped create the studio's rich legacy. --Tom Keogh, Amazon.com
Customer Reviews:
The Original Disney version.......2008-02-20
The Video cover shown is NOT for the animated version described - it is for the film (not animated) version of the Walt Disney film circa 1950? The film was a 'classic' starring Richard Todd, Joan Rice, Peter Finch and Hubert Gregg. I have seen it many times and have the VHS version as shown on your site. I had trouble finding a copy!
Misses the Mark.......2007-08-24
Given the worthy actors in this film it isn't quite bad enough to be terrible, but it is an embarrassment. Richard Todd usually turns in a good performance, but here, as Robin Hood, he is one-dimensional and completely unconvincing, as are James Hayter (Friar Tuck) and James Robertson Justice (Little John). Peter Finch as the Sheriff of Nottingham turns out the best acting performance, but that's relative -- he's just the best of a bad bunch. As to Joan Rice as Maid Marian, the less said the better -- 'inept' is less enough.
This is essentially a British film, but stamped 'Disney', replete with cardboard castles and imitation countryside. Perhaps it was made for children. I know I enjoyed it as a 10-year-old at the Essoldo in Salford, though it was the singing of Elton Hayes as the minstrel that has enhanced my recollection of it. His role holds up well, and while the songs may not be classics, they are evocative and partly redeem this cheap celluloid effort.
Not meant to be a masterpiece, made just for fun!.......2007-08-03
When King Richard Caeur de Lion leaves his throne behind to take on a crusade, his place is taken over by his greedy younger brother, Prince John. With his two henchmen, Sir Hiss and the Sheriff of Nottingham, Prince John manages to bring the land into a deep depression with citizens starving and living in gray misery. However, not all is lost for the poor, helpless people of Nottingham, the kind outlawed Robin Hood and his faithful companion, Little John have made a promise to keep their hopes alive by "borrowing" from the rich to give to the poor. A promise they manage to keep without getting into deep trouble until the very day they attempt this against Prince John himself. Being terribly humiliated before his own minions, Prince John seeks revenge and offers a grand reward for Robin's capture.
Unfortunately for Prince John, he doesn't have too many Englishmen on his side other than his clumsy minions, so he thinks it's best to take matters into his own hands by setting traps for Robin Hood. First an archer tournament, first price being a Golden Arrow and a kiss from Maid Marian, in which good ol' Robin participates under disguise and afterward the hanging of good Friar Tuck, however, Prince John's traps fail with the absence of intelligent warriors to carry them on, so with smart tricks and fun-filled treats, Robin Hood manages to scape Prince John and eventually, bring peace back to Nottingham.
Although the structure for this picture is rather weak, it is saved by the fact that it was never really meant to be strong in the first place. "Robin Hood" the second animated feature produced by Disney after Walt's death was supposed to be a break from full-blown animated musicals and live more as a soft and fun comedy. Despite it's poor animation techniques, the film remains lively and colorful, with soft, crazy villains rather then dark, demon like ones and lively, forgettable songs rather then timeless melodies. Who can forget the clever opening number that inspired the famous and crazy Hamster Dance? The vocal work is excellent, Phil Harris and Peter Ustinov steal the show! If viewed technically, Robin Hood will disappoint its viewers, but for those searching for good, clean fun for the entire family, this is a great pick!
Can't go wrong!!.......2007-05-20
This is a fabulous version of Robin Hood.
As a little girl my dad recorded this for me off the TV and every time I was ill I watched it untill i knew it off by heart!
I am 21 now and it was great to watch it agian recently. Still every bit as magical.
A definate timeless classic -for children big and small!!
Perfect for children!.......2007-03-05
Some say Disney is childish--but I have to disagree. An avid Robin Hood fan, I was overjoyed when this was shown on the TV not so long ago.
The characters are all animals, which adds a new dimension to the famous Robin Hood legend--all the characters with their own special little personalities from Skippy the Rabbit to the very wolfish sheriff of Nottingham.
However, the story is perfect for children to learn about the legend of Hood, for it has all the classic Disney elements such as catchy songs and fantastic imagery.
Overall one of the great Disney films, with a very fine Marian vixen to add to the entertainment. Recommended to both adults and children alike!
Amazon.co.uk Review
A minor classic from Disney, this 1973 all-animal, all-animated musical version of the familiar story of Robin Hood is more charming than one might expect. Perhaps it's the warm, chummy take on key relationships within the legend--the way Robin Hood (Brian Bedford) gets twitterpated whenever the subject of Maid Marian (Monica Evans) comes up or the way best pal Little John (Phil Harris voicing a variation on his own Baloo from The Jungle Book) admonishes the Sherwood Forest hero, "Aw, Rob, why dontcha just marry the girl?" (Then, of course, there's the canny "casting" of the romantic leads as foxes: Robin the sly one and Marian the, well, foxy one.) The rest of the vocal cast is lively and eclectic: Peter Ustinov, Andy Devine, Terry Thomas, George Lindsey. Roger Miller provides the songs and voice for the minstrel character Allan-A-Dale. The film is ably directed by Wolfgang Reitherman, whose decades of work in Disney's animation division helped create the studio's rich legacy. --Tom Keogh, Amazon.com
Customer Reviews:
The Original Disney version.......2008-02-20
The Video cover shown is NOT for the animated version described - it is for the film (not animated) version of the Walt Disney film circa 1950? The film was a 'classic' starring Richard Todd, Joan Rice, Peter Finch and Hubert Gregg. I have seen it many times and have the VHS version as shown on your site. I had trouble finding a copy!
Misses the Mark.......2007-08-24
Given the worthy actors in this film it isn't quite bad enough to be terrible, but it is an embarrassment. Richard Todd usually turns in a good performance, but here, as Robin Hood, he is one-dimensional and completely unconvincing, as are James Hayter (Friar Tuck) and James Robertson Justice (Little John). Peter Finch as the Sheriff of Nottingham turns out the best acting performance, but that's relative -- he's just the best of a bad bunch. As to Joan Rice as Maid Marian, the less said the better -- 'inept' is less enough.
This is essentially a British film, but stamped 'Disney', replete with cardboard castles and imitation countryside. Perhaps it was made for children. I know I enjoyed it as a 10-year-old at the Essoldo in Salford, though it was the singing of Elton Hayes as the minstrel that has enhanced my recollection of it. His role holds up well, and while the songs may not be classics, they are evocative and partly redeem this cheap celluloid effort.
Not meant to be a masterpiece, made just for fun!.......2007-08-03
When King Richard Caeur de Lion leaves his throne behind to take on a crusade, his place is taken over by his greedy younger brother, Prince John. With his two henchmen, Sir Hiss and the Sheriff of Nottingham, Prince John manages to bring the land into a deep depression with citizens starving and living in gray misery. However, not all is lost for the poor, helpless people of Nottingham, the kind outlawed Robin Hood and his faithful companion, Little John have made a promise to keep their hopes alive by "borrowing" from the rich to give to the poor. A promise they manage to keep without getting into deep trouble until the very day they attempt this against Prince John himself. Being terribly humiliated before his own minions, Prince John seeks revenge and offers a grand reward for Robin's capture.
Unfortunately for Prince John, he doesn't have too many Englishmen on his side other than his clumsy minions, so he thinks it's best to take matters into his own hands by setting traps for Robin Hood. First an archer tournament, first price being a Golden Arrow and a kiss from Maid Marian, in which good ol' Robin participates under disguise and afterward the hanging of good Friar Tuck, however, Prince John's traps fail with the absence of intelligent warriors to carry them on, so with smart tricks and fun-filled treats, Robin Hood manages to scape Prince John and eventually, bring peace back to Nottingham.
Although the structure for this picture is rather weak, it is saved by the fact that it was never really meant to be strong in the first place. "Robin Hood" the second animated feature produced by Disney after Walt's death was supposed to be a break from full-blown animated musicals and live more as a soft and fun comedy. Despite it's poor animation techniques, the film remains lively and colorful, with soft, crazy villains rather then dark, demon like ones and lively, forgettable songs rather then timeless melodies. Who can forget the clever opening number that inspired the famous and crazy Hamster Dance? The vocal work is excellent, Phil Harris and Peter Ustinov steal the show! If viewed technically, Robin Hood will disappoint its viewers, but for those searching for good, clean fun for the entire family, this is a great pick!
Can't go wrong!!.......2007-05-20
This is a fabulous version of Robin Hood.
As a little girl my dad recorded this for me off the TV and every time I was ill I watched it untill i knew it off by heart!
I am 21 now and it was great to watch it agian recently. Still every bit as magical.
A definate timeless classic -for children big and small!!
Perfect for children!.......2007-03-05
Some say Disney is childish--but I have to disagree. An avid Robin Hood fan, I was overjoyed when this was shown on the TV not so long ago.
The characters are all animals, which adds a new dimension to the famous Robin Hood legend--all the characters with their own special little personalities from Skippy the Rabbit to the very wolfish sheriff of Nottingham.
However, the story is perfect for children to learn about the legend of Hood, for it has all the classic Disney elements such as catchy songs and fantastic imagery.
Overall one of the great Disney films, with a very fine Marian vixen to add to the entertainment. Recommended to both adults and children alike!
Amazon.co.uk Review
A minor classic from Disney, this 1973 all-animal, all-animated musical version of the familiar story of Robin Hood is more charming than one might expect. Perhaps it's the warm, chummy take on key relationships within the legend--the way Robin Hood (Brian Bedford) gets twitterpated whenever the subject of Maid Marian (Monica Evans) comes up or the way best pal Little John (Phil Harris voicing a variation on his own Baloo from The Jungle Book) admonishes the Sherwood Forest hero, "Aw, Rob, why dontcha just marry the girl?" (Then, of course, there's the canny "casting" of the romantic leads as foxes: Robin the sly one and Marian the, well, foxy one.) The rest of the vocal cast is lively and eclectic: Peter Ustinov, Andy Devine, Terry Thomas, George Lindsey. Roger Miller provides the songs and voice for the minstrel character Allan-A-Dale. The film is ably directed by Wolfgang Reitherman, whose decades of work in Disney's animation division helped create the studio's rich legacy. --Tom Keogh, Amazon.com
Customer Reviews:
The Original Disney version.......2008-02-20
The Video cover shown is NOT for the animated version described - it is for the film (not animated) version of the Walt Disney film circa 1950? The film was a 'classic' starring Richard Todd, Joan Rice, Peter Finch and Hubert Gregg. I have seen it many times and have the VHS version as shown on your site. I had trouble finding a copy!
Misses the Mark.......2007-08-24
Given the worthy actors in this film it isn't quite bad enough to be terrible, but it is an embarrassment. Richard Todd usually turns in a good performance, but here, as Robin Hood, he is one-dimensional and completely unconvincing, as are James Hayter (Friar Tuck) and James Robertson Justice (Little John). Peter Finch as the Sheriff of Nottingham turns out the best acting performance, but that's relative -- he's just the best of a bad bunch. As to Joan Rice as Maid Marian, the less said the better -- 'inept' is less enough.
This is essentially a British film, but stamped 'Disney', replete with cardboard castles and imitation countryside. Perhaps it was made for children. I know I enjoyed it as a 10-year-old at the Essoldo in Salford, though it was the singing of Elton Hayes as the minstrel that has enhanced my recollection of it. His role holds up well, and while the songs may not be classics, they are evocative and partly redeem this cheap celluloid effort.
Not meant to be a masterpiece, made just for fun!.......2007-08-03
When King Richard Caeur de Lion leaves his throne behind to take on a crusade, his place is taken over by his greedy younger brother, Prince John. With his two henchmen, Sir Hiss and the Sheriff of Nottingham, Prince John manages to bring the land into a deep depression with citizens starving and living in gray misery. However, not all is lost for the poor, helpless people of Nottingham, the kind outlawed Robin Hood and his faithful companion, Little John have made a promise to keep their hopes alive by "borrowing" from the rich to give to the poor. A promise they manage to keep without getting into deep trouble until the very day they attempt this against Prince John himself. Being terribly humiliated before his own minions, Prince John seeks revenge and offers a grand reward for Robin's capture.
Unfortunately for Prince John, he doesn't have too many Englishmen on his side other than his clumsy minions, so he thinks it's best to take matters into his own hands by setting traps for Robin Hood. First an archer tournament, first price being a Golden Arrow and a kiss from Maid Marian, in which good ol' Robin participates under disguise and afterward the hanging of good Friar Tuck, however, Prince John's traps fail with the absence of intelligent warriors to carry them on, so with smart tricks and fun-filled treats, Robin Hood manages to scape Prince John and eventually, bring peace back to Nottingham.
Although the structure for this picture is rather weak, it is saved by the fact that it was never really meant to be strong in the first place. "Robin Hood" the second animated feature produced by Disney after Walt's death was supposed to be a break from full-blown animated musicals and live more as a soft and fun comedy. Despite it's poor animation techniques, the film remains lively and colorful, with soft, crazy villains rather then dark, demon like ones and lively, forgettable songs rather then timeless melodies. Who can forget the clever opening number that inspired the famous and crazy Hamster Dance? The vocal work is excellent, Phil Harris and Peter Ustinov steal the show! If viewed technically, Robin Hood will disappoint its viewers, but for those searching for good, clean fun for the entire family, this is a great pick!
Can't go wrong!!.......2007-05-20
This is a fabulous version of Robin Hood.
As a little girl my dad recorded this for me off the TV and every time I was ill I watched it untill i knew it off by heart!
I am 21 now and it was great to watch it agian recently. Still every bit as magical.
A definate timeless classic -for children big and small!!
Perfect for children!.......2007-03-05
Some say Disney is childish--but I have to disagree. An avid Robin Hood fan, I was overjoyed when this was shown on the TV not so long ago.
The characters are all animals, which adds a new dimension to the famous Robin Hood legend--all the characters with their own special little personalities from Skippy the Rabbit to the very wolfish sheriff of Nottingham.
However, the story is perfect for children to learn about the legend of Hood, for it has all the classic Disney elements such as catchy songs and fantastic imagery.
Overall one of the great Disney films, with a very fine Marian vixen to add to the entertainment. Recommended to both adults and children alike!
DVD:
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- Star Wars - Clone Wars Vol.2
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- The Complete Flumps [1977]
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