Story perspectives

A24's “The Death of Robin Hood” Flops Critically

6/19/2026

Summary

Jackman’s Robin Fails

A24 released Michael Sarnoski’s The Death of Robin Hood in the United States on June 19, 2026.
The 123-minute film, starring Hugh Jackman as an aging Robin, was shot in rugged Northern Ireland and photographed by cinematographer Patrick Scola.
Sarnoski delivers a grim, revisionist take that blends Eggers-style realism with Eastwood western tones to question Robin’s myth.
Critics gave it two out of four stars, called it inert and pretentious, and predicted commercial failure.

Summary

Robin Hood Dies

The film adapts the ballad “Robin Hood’s Death,” ending with a killing by a prioress.
Sarnoski turned after his father’s death when a neighbor gave him a Robin Hood storybook.
The script adds a leper, once Robin’s victim, and Margaret, an orphan he mentors, while shooting on 35 mm film in Northern Ireland creates a grainy texture.
A24’s June 2026 release placed the drama against summer blockbusters, sparking doubts about audience fit.

Summary

Robin Confronts Past

The film frames Robin’s guilt, redemption and legacy as a meditation.
Little John, played by Bill Skarsgård, murders a man for bread before allying with Robin.
Sister Brigid runs the priory that heals Robin and introduces spiritual calm.
Margaret draws Robin toward a protective, future-oriented mindset.
A scarred youth appears to force Robin to confront the brutal consequences of his past actions.

History

Historical Context

In 1598 Anthony Munday’s plays linked Robin Hood to the Earl of Huntingdon and Richard I, a template later solidified by Warner Bros.’ $2 million 1938 film directed by Michael Curtiz starring Errol Flynn. A24’s 2026 release, The Death of Robin Hood, deliberately dismantles that heroic image, showing how each era reshapes the legend to reflect contemporary anxieties.

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Jackman’s Robin Fails

A24 released Michael Sarnoski’s The Death of Robin Hood in the United States on June 19, 2026.
The 123-minute film, starring Hugh Jackman as an aging Robin, was shot in rugged Northern Ireland and photographed by cinematographer Patrick Scola.
Sarnoski delivers a grim, revisionist take that blends Eggers-style realism with Eastwood western tones to question Robin’s myth.
Critics gave it two out of four stars, called it inert and pretentious, and predicted commercial failure.

1 / 4