This week's cinematic offerings include "The Death of Robin Hood," starring Hugh Jackman and Jodie Comer, which has been met with a starkly critical reception. The film is characterized as a "gory, ultra-violent onslaught" rather than a traditional retelling of the legendary outlaw. Reviewers note that Jackman portrays a "grizzled, battle-scarred Robin" who is depicted as a "monster" who "robbed and killed for the joy of it."
The film's violent nature is highlighted, with descriptions of Robin and a "very un-Merrie Little John" played by Bill Skarsgard, "energetically butcher[ing] their way through entire families of men, women and children for no discernible reason." The dialogue is also noted as being difficult to follow, with Jackman's Nottingham accent being a particular point of contention.
The narrative eventually sees a wounded Robin seeking refuge at an island priory run by a prioress, played by Comer. Despite the talents of the lead actors, the film's direction by Michael Sarnoski is cited as leaving them with little to work with, failing to uncover a deeper character beneath the outlaw.
In contrast, "Late Fame" offers a different perspective on legend-making. The film stars Willem Dafoe as Ed Saxberger, a reclusive 1970s New York poet who gains attention from a group of younger admirers. The movie is described as a "witty look at today's shallow yearning for authenticity" and questions the definition of an artist. While the film may have loose threads, Dafoe and co-star Greta Lee are praised for their performances.
"Gail Daughtry And The Celebrity Sex Pass," a sex comedy, is also reviewed. The film centers on Gail, played by Zoey Deutch, who embarks on a revenge mission to Tinseltown after her fiancé uses his "celebrity sex pass" option. John Slattery, a co-star from "Mad Men," is noted for his performance in the film. The comedy is described as having a "goofball, Bill & Ted kind of enthusiasm."
All three films are currently in cinemas.