Thescreescore – Hugh Jackman’s latest cinematic endeavor, "The Death of Robin Hood," has not only captivated audiences but also carved out a significant niche in film history, achieving a remarkable Rotten Tomatoes audience record for the 21st century. The R-rated thriller, an unflinching reinterpretation of the legendary outlaw, marks a substantial critical and popular success, proving that a grittier vision can resonate deeply with contemporary viewers.
The Oscar-nominated actor, celebrated for his versatility across genres, from the iconic Wolverine to musical theatre, now adds another compelling performance to his extensive repertoire. "The Death of Robin Hood" sees Jackman join a distinguished list of actors who have portrayed the fabled archer, including Russell Crowe, Kevin Costner, and Taron Egerton. However, this A24 production distinguishes itself with a starkly different approach: a mature, R-rated narrative that delves into the darker facets of the myth, moving away from the swashbuckling adventures or comedic takes of past iterations.
This bold creative choice has paid dividends, earning "The Death of Robin Hood" a "fresh" 69% critical score on Rotten Tomatoes. This places it among the highest-rated Robin Hood adaptations since the 1990s, a notable achievement given the generally lukewarm reception of many prior attempts, particularly the critically panned 2018 version which languished at a mere 15%. Audiences have echoed this sentiment, bestowing a "fresh" 67% score, cementing its status as a rare success story in the long lineage of Robin Hood films.
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Crucially, "The Death of Robin Hood" stands as the first and only movie adaptation in the 21st century to secure "fresh" scores from both critics and audiences. While Ridley Scott’s 2010 "Robin Hood" starring Russell Crowe achieved a 58% audience score, Jackman’s film surpasses it, marking the best audience reception for a Robin Hood movie in 16 years. It also joins MGM+’s television series (77% critics, 80% audience) as only the second overall Robin Hood project to achieve this dual critical and audience acclaim.
Director Michael Sarnoski’s vision, based on the 17th-century ballad "Robin Hood’s Death," deconstructs the iconic hero, presenting him as a man haunted by his past deeds rather than a celebrated benefactor. Critics and moviegoers alike have lauded Jackman’s intensely broody performance, drawing parallels to his weary, world-worn portrayal of Wolverine in "Logan." Sarnoski’s revisionist direction, favoring a profound character study over traditional action sequences, has been widely praised. The film’s grim tone is further enhanced by stunning visuals and a strong supporting cast, featuring Jodie Comer and Bill Skarsgård, who contribute significantly to the movie’s atmospheric depth.
While the future of other Robin Hood adaptations remains uncertain—Disney+ regrettably shelved its planned remake of the 1973 classic, and MGM+’s series awaits a second season release—"The Death of Robin Hood" has undeniably revitalized interest in the legend. By offering a mature, introspective, and critically acclaimed perspective, Jackman and Sarnoski have proven that even the most enduring myths can be reimagined for a new era, captivating audiences and critics alike.
"The Death of Robin Hood" is currently playing in theaters.
Film Details:
- Release Date: June 19, 2026
- Runtime: 123 Minutes
- Director: Michael Sarnoski
- Writer: Michael Sarnoski
- Producers: Aaron Ryder, Andrew Swett, Alexander Black
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