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The “terrible” 2007 movie Ridley Scott turned into something worse: “It was ridiculous”
Ridley Scott dismissed a 2007 script that recast Robin Hood as an outlaw and the Sheriff of Nottingham as a medieval forensic investigator, calling it “ridiculous”. He instead reshaped the project into a historical action epic, a decision the article presents as a misjudgement that produced a less engaging film.
The original script, by Ethan Reiff and Cyrus Voris, was reportedly well written and had earned a seven-figure option from Universal Pictures. Scott questioned the title and concept, and said he knew how to make Robin Hood after comparing the challenge to Gladiator. His 2010 film starred Russell Crowe as Robin, but the article criticises it as a joyless retelling.
In short
- Scott rejected a revisionist Robin Hood script.
- He turned the project into a historical action epic.
- The 2010 Russell Crowe film drew criticism.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Scott could reasonably have viewed the outlaw-and-forensic-investigator premise as too far from the familiar Robin Hood story, risking confusion or alienating audiences expecting a historical adventure. Reworking it as a larger-scale period epic offered a chance to give the legend weight and spectacle, and to draw on the kind of historical action drama that had succeeded for him before.
The case against
The original script’s unusual angle could have made the familiar legend feel fresh, while its reported strong writing and substantial option suggested real industry interest. By discarding that approach for a more solemn epic, Scott may have lost the story’s wit and distinctive appeal, producing a film that critics found less engaging.
Explained simply
Robin Hood is a legendary outlaw in English folklore, traditionally portrayed as a skilled archer who steals from the rich and helps the poor. The Sheriff of Nottingham is his familiar adversary, usually shown as the local authority trying to capture him.
Films and stories have often reworked these characters, changing their roles or the period and style of the tale. Ridley Scott is a film director whose historical dramas include Gladiator; his Robin Hood film, released in 2010, starred Russell Crowe.