Robin Hood (1973)
Robin Hood (1973)
This Disney animated version of the classic titled legend that "robs from the rich to give to the poor" was directed by Wolfgang Reitherman. The narrative assumes that you know the essence of the back story while it highlights – indeed exaggerates – some of the plot’s more tried-and-true elements for comic effect. One examples is an archery contest which is staged to lure Robin from Sherwood Forest. The film feels much like the studio’s earlier Jungle Book (1967) given the same director and featuring many of the same voice talents.
The story is introduced and narrated by Allan-a-Dale (Roger Miller) a large tailed rooster that introduces the "animals’ version of the tale". Prince John a lion voiced by Peter Ustinov gleefully taxes his subjects while receiving input from his colleague Sir Hiss a snake voiced by Terry-Thomas while his beloved brother King Richard is away on a Crusade. Robin Hood a fox voiced by Brian Bedford and his partner-in-crime Little John (Phil Harris) rob the thumb-sucking Prince and his caravan – escorted by his elephant and rhino guards – as it ventures towards rich Nottingham where its wolf Sheriff (Pat Buttram) takes every farthing from its residents. Foxy Maid Marian (Monica Evans) awaits her dear Robin while ‘protected’ within the castle walls by Lady Kluck (Carole Shelley) a chicken. Andy Devine provides the voice of Friar Tuck a badger whereas George Lindsey and Ken Curtis are Trigger and Nutsy respectively the two vultures that guard the palace for the Prince.
The movie earned an Academy Award nomination for George Bruns (music) and Floyd Huddleston (lyrics) for their Original Song "Love".