SYNOPSIS: Based on the well-known English legend, Robin of Locksley is a noble who is forced to become an outlaw when Prince John the usurper tries to take the throne from his absent brother. He flees to Sherwood forest where he gathers together his Merry Men and is called Robin Hood. He begins to rob the rich and give back to the poor all while wooing Maid Marian and trying to stop Prince John.

BOTTOM LINE: One of Flynn's bets films and the standard to which all other Robin Hood films are compared – usually to their detriment. It's hard to surpass such a vibrant, energetic, romantic, suspenseful and entertaining adventure. Flynn's Robin of Locksley is sexy, intelligent, clever and dangerous (to those who oppose his cause), yet is also intensely sensitive to the trials and tribulations of the common man. An incredibly attractive combination not lost on Lady Marian, played by the luminous de Havilland, or any female who's had the pleasure of watching his performance. The villains of the piece, the evil Prince John and the vicious Sir Guy of Gisbourne, are played with joyful malevolance by the always enjoyable Claude Rains and Basil Rathbone.

The story is complex, yet never confusing, following the lore and history of this tumultuous time in British history. It balances the political, comical and romantic aspects quite well. The costumes and sets bring the period to life, creating a brilliant backdrop for the swashbuckling sequences, which are exciting and amazingly choreographed, especially the finale between Flynn and Rathbone. No one works a sword with as much energy and grace as Flynn. De Havilland's regal beauty and fiery nature complement Flynn's elegance and wit perfectly. The Merry Men live up to their name providing much of the film's humor. An exciting and socially conscious romp that gets better with every viewing.