Robin Hood is one of the most famous folk heroes of all time. The legendary archer who stole from the rich and gave to the poor has inspired filmmakers for over a century. From classic adventure films to modern action-packed takes – this list features the 10 best Robin Hood movies ever made.
1. The Adventures of Robin Hood (1938) – The ultimate classic
Errol Flynn is the Robin Hood by which all other versions are judged.
This film is full of heroic battles, romance, and colorful characters. Basil Rathbone as Sir Guy of Gisbourne is a fantastic villain, and Olivia de Havilland is a perfect Lady Marian.
For many, this is the one true Robin Hood movie.
2. Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (1991) – Kevin Costner’s epic version
This version is pure ’90s blockbuster magic.
Kevin Costner plays Robin Hood as a rebellious freedom fighter, while Alan Rickman as the Sheriff of Nottingham steals the show with a deliciously over-the-top villain role.
Bryan Adams’ song (‘Everything I Do, I Do It for You’) became a global hit, and the film remains a nostalgic favorite.
3. Robin Hood (1973) – Disney’s iconic fox
This animated classic turned Robin Hood into a charming fox, with a wonderfully light-hearted and humorous tone.
The film is filled with memorable characters like the sly but lovable Little John and the outrageously foolish Prince John.
For many, this was their first-ever Robin Hood – and it’s still one of the most fun.
4. Robin and Marian (1976) – The most melancholic Robin Hood film
Sean Connery plays an older Robin Hood, returning after years of war only to discover Lady Marian (Audrey Hepburn) has become a nun.
This isn’t your typical adventure film, but a deeply emotional love story about a Robin Hood who no longer believes in legends.
If you’re looking for a mature and more profound version of the story, this is a must-see.
5. Robin Hood (2010) – Ridley Scott’s gritty version with Russell Crowe
Ridley Scott and Russell Crowe aimed to make Robin Hood more realistic and historical, more like a medieval war film than a fairy tale.
This version explores Robin’s origins as a soldier in King Richard’s army and how he ultimately becomes a rebel leader.
The film boasts beautiful cinematography and epic battles, but lacks some of the playful charm found in other Robin Hood films.
6. Robin Hood: Men in Tights (1993) – The funniest parody
Mel Brooks took all the clichés of Robin Hood films and turned them into pure comedy gold.
Cary Elwes plays Robin as a charismatic, self-aware jokester, and the film is packed with satire, slapstick, and great one-liners.
If you love movies like The Naked Gun and Monty Python, this is the funniest Robin Hood film ever.
7. The Story of Robin Hood and His Merrie Men (1952) – Disney’s live-action classic
Before the animated Disney version, there was this live-action film from the 1950s.
With a classic adventure plot, vibrant cinematography, and a charming Richard Todd as Robin Hood, this film feels like a storybook come to life.
Lesser known than other versions, but a hidden gem for Robin Hood fans.
8. Robin Hood (1922) – The first major Robin Hood film
Douglas Fairbanks starred in this silent film as the first major on-screen version of Robin Hood.
Fairbanks was the Tom Cruise of his time and did all his acrobatic stunts himself, including spectacular sword fights and climbs.
This film laid the foundation for all Robin Hood films that followed.
9. Robin Hood (2018) – The failed attempt at a modern reboot
Taron Egerton and Jamie Foxx tried to give Robin Hood a modern, gritty, action-packed makeover, but the result was chaotic.
The film features cool slow-motion fight scenes and a hip, Assassin’s Creed-like style, but often feels forced and unrealistic.
Not the best, but if you enjoy over-the-top action and stylish cinematography, there’s still some fun to be had.
10. Rogues of Sherwood Forest (1950) – Robin Hood’s son takes over
This lesser-known but entertaining adventure film focuses not on Robin Hood himself, but on his son, who follows in his father’s footsteps.
The film takes place after King Richard’s death, with a new king proving to be even more tyrannical than the last.
A unique take on the Robin Hood legend, complete with flashy sword fights and classic Hollywood charm.
Robin Hood remains a timeless icon
Whether you prefer classic adventures, comedic parodies, or realistic war dramas, there’s a Robin Hood movie for everyone.
