The latest cinematic interpretation of the legendary outlaw, "The Death Of Robin Hood," starring Hugh Jackman and Jodie Comer, has been described as a "gory, ultra-violent onslaught" that starkly contrasts with gentler versions of the tale. Released this week, the film presents a grizzled, battle-scarred Robin Hood as a "murderous monster" who "robbed and killed for the joy of it," rather than a champion of the meek.
Reviews note that the movie, directed by Michael Sarnoski, depicts Jackman's character and a "very un-Merrie" Little John, played by Bill Skarsgard, engaging in extreme violence against entire families for "no discernible reason." The film's dialogue is reportedly mumbled, making it difficult to follow. Jackman's performance is described as digging deep, but the character's true nature remains elusive over the film's two-hour runtime.
The narrative eventually shifts when a wounded Robin seeks healing at an island priory run by a prioress (Comer). There, he cares for Little John's daughter and befriends a leper, who offers a path to peace. However, critics question whether audiences will remain engaged until this point.
In contrast to "The Death Of Robin Hood," the film "Late Fame" offers a "warmer, more winning take on male legend-making." Starring Willem Dafoe as Ed Saxberger, a forgotten 1970s New York poet who gains attention in his later years, the film explores themes of artistic authenticity and recognition. Dafoe's performance is lauded as pitch-perfect, and the film is described as a "curious little comedy-drama" that, despite loose threads, is enjoyable.
Another new release, "Gail Daughtry And The Celebrity Sex Pass," is characterized as a "silly Marmite sex comedy." Zoey Deutch plays Gail, a naive hairdresser who embarks on a revenge mission to Hollywood after her fiancé exercises a "celebrity 'sex pass' option." The film features John Slattery, a "Mad Men" co-star of Jon Hamm, who is noted for gamely sending himself up. The movie is described as a "goofball" comedy with a "Bill & Ted kind of enthusiasm."
All three films are currently in cinemas.