If I Were King
If I Were King

Movie spotlight

If I Were King

1938
Movie
101 min
English

King Louis XI masquerades as a commoner in Paris, seeking out the treachery he is sure lurks in his kingdom. At a local tavern, he overhears the brash poet François Villon extolling why he would be a better king. Annoyed yet intrigued, the King bestows on Villon the title of Grand Constable. Soon Villon begins work and falls for a lovely lady-in-waiting, but then must flee execution when the King turns on him.

Insights

IMDb7.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes95%
Metacritic84/100
Google Users92%
Director: Michael Curtiz, William KeighleyGenres: Adventure, Action, Comedy, Romance, Drama

Plot Summary

In 12th-century England, Robin Hood, a nobleman banished by the tyrannical Prince John, assembles a band of Merry Men to rob from the rich and give to the poor. He fights against Prince John's oppressive rule, defends the common folk, and battles the villainous Sir Guy of Gisbourne, all while falling in love with the beautiful Maid Marian.

Critical Reception

The Adventures of Robin Hood is widely regarded as a classic swashbuckling adventure film, celebrated for its vibrant Technicolor, Errol Flynn's charismatic performance, and thrilling action sequences. It was a critical and commercial success upon its release and has remained a beloved film for generations.

What Reviewers Say

  • A benchmark of the swashbuckling genre, elevated by Errol Flynn's iconic portrayal of Robin Hood.

  • Visually stunning in early Technicolor, with dynamic action and enduring charm.

  • Praised for its grand scale, exciting sword fights, and romantic undertones.

Google audience: Audiences consistently praise the film's timeless adventure, Errol Flynn's dashing performance, and the spectacular sword fights. Many highlight the vibrant color and the film's overall escapist fun as major draws.

Awards & Accolades

Won the Academy Award for Best Film Editing (Ralph Dawson) and was nominated for Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Original Score. It is also recognized by the American Film Institute as one of the greatest films of all time.

Fun Fact

The famous Sheriff of Nottingham, played by Alan Hale Sr., was actually Errol Flynn's drinking buddy in real life, and their on-screen chemistry was a significant part of the film's appeal.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

This is a cracking bit of swashbuckling adventure with Ronald Colman ("Villon") and particularly Basil Rathbone (Louis XI) on top form. The former is a poetic vagabond, Robin Hood style, character who pinches what he can to help feed the po...