film
‘The aim was to give Kevin Costner’s version a good kicking’: director John Irvin on his anti-Thatcher Robin Hood
Rush-released in the same year as Prince of Thieves blockbuster, this gritty British movie battled winter weather and chronic illness – and it still holds up
TL;DR
- John Irvin's Robin Hood was intentionally released to compete with Kevin Costner's Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.
- The film aimed for a more honest, gritty portrayal of Robin Hood, incorporating subtle anti-Thatcher sentiments relevant to 1990s England.
- Filming took place in Cheshire and north Wales during winter, presenting logistical challenges like bare trees and cold weather.
- Lead actor Patrick Bergin battled chronic colitis during the shoot, requiring doubles and careful management to conceal his illness from the studio.
- Uma Thurman was cast as Maid Marian after initially being considered for Costner's film.
- Despite positive reviews, Irvin's Robin Hood was commercially overshadowed by Prince of Thieves.