As the popularity of new film viewing mediums such as Blu-ray and Digital Download have arisen we are finding new and exciting ways to enjoy classic films once more. Take into account Errol Flynn’s dashing turn as the title hero in the 1938 production of The Adventures of Robin Hood; now available on Blu-ray.
The Adventures of Robin Hood follows the classic tale of the legendary hero as he stands in the way of John (Claude Rains), brother of a captured Richard the Lionheart, as he tries to deceive his way into the throne during Richard’s absence. With many of the stunts being performed by Errol Flynn himself, this production is a dazzling testament to the pageantry of medieval England as portrayed through the eyes of 1938’s visionary directors Michael Curtiz (Captain Blood) & William Keighley. Winning three Academy Awards for 1938, this production also features legends Olivia De Havilland as Maid Marian (Gone With The Wind) and Basil Rathbone (The Hound of the Baskervilles, 1939).
Special Features:
Errol Flynn’s take as Robin Hood has always been heralded as one of the most celebrated, however he was not the first dashing actor to take on this swashbuckling role. As seen in the special features found on this this Blu-ray edition we can now rediscover the first screen adaptation of the story of Robin Hood in1912 to Douglas Fairbank’s rousing 1922 silent film version.
Also included within the special features is an in depth look into the life of Errol Flynn himself. We are treated to two vintage short subject documentaries, The Cruise of Zaca (1952) and Cavalcade of Archery (1946).
The Cruise of Zaca (1952) narrated by Errol Flynn himself, shows a day in the life of Errol Flynn as he takes his schooner Zaca out to the South Seas with a group of scientists from the California Institute of Oceanography. The Cruise of Zaca; is a glowing documentary featuring raw footage of islanders as well as the natural oceanic wildlife of 1952.
Cavalcade of Archery (1946), This short film features famous archer Howard Hill as he demonstrates his archery skills and techniques while performing various trick shots.
Also not to be overlooked, the special features do include the blooper reel Breakdowns of 1938. A look into outtakes and unguarded moments of some of the most iconic stars of the golden age of cinema such as Carole Lombard, Bette Davis, Humphrey Bogart, Claudette Colbert and much more.
For a film that features lush colors, vivid pageantry and thrilling performances that today can be hard to come by. The special features alone provide a delightful peek behind the curtain into a time when cinema began to shine its brightest. The Blu-ray of The Adventures of Robin Hood does justice to celebrating the frivolity that is Robin Hood, especially with charismatic Errol Flynn at its helm.
To purchase on Blu-Ray through Amazon.com:
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