Robin Longstride or Robin of the Hood (or as he is better known, Robin Hood), is back to the silver screen. With Ridley Scott as director and Russell Crowe as main actor, this marks the duo's 4th film together - since the highly appraised epic 'Gladiator' ('Robin Hood' being their 5th collaboration).

The film takes place in medieval England, after the end of the first Crusade and sees Richard the Lionheart (then King of England) with his army returning back to their country after 10 years in the Middle-East. Amongst them are some of the finest archers, Robin and his three friends, who soon find themselves in a plot which sees England at the mercy of the King of France.

The action is extraordinary. From the first opening scenes till the last few minutes before the credits roll, the viewers have no time to breathe. The choreography against a backdrop of some of England's finest terrain is simply superb. But aside the action, there is also enough room for character development. Russell Crowe has shown us through the years that he can play various characters in different situations, and 'Robin Hood' is no different.

He is a strong, charismatic and courageous archer who leads his men to daring deeds. Whilst his performance may not be as powerful as depicted in 'Gladiator', Crowe is still the main presence in the film and delivers a superb character. The rest of the cast also give their best and this helps to drive the story forward and create a believable world.

It should be noted that this film is the story of the origins of Robin Hood and how he came to be known as the famous outlaw who stole the rich to give to the poor. The spirit of the medieval England is incredibly captured. Ridley Scott has done it again. The costumes, the setting, the villages, all help the viewer to go back in time and enjoy the story as it is meant to be enjoyed.

This is a definitive must-see. So much so that by the end of the film you'll want to start taking archery lessons as a hobby!

Rating: 5/5 *****