Robin Hood was released in 1973 and loosely follows the legend of the same name. Though it was not well received critically, audiences enjoyed it and it has remained well known despite its age and status as a lesser Disney film.
Released in the early seventies, the Disney studio was still trying to figure out how to run its animation division without Walt. Robin Hood was an attempt at a lower budget film than was typical for the studio. The most obvious cost saving measure was using character models from The Jungle Book, saving money on new designs. Sharp eyed viewers will also notice that several animated sequences are reused throughout the film. The most hidden budgetary concession is the reuse of rough animation from other films as the basis for animation of scenes. The most prominent use of this technique is during the dance number in Robin’s camp, which contains elements from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, The Jungle Book, and The Aristocats.
The low budget employed is a non-issue. I loved this film as a child and it more than holds up. The songs are catchy, the story is fast paced and entertaining, and the characters are thoroughly enjoyable. This is a great introduction to the classic legend and a film that any fan of animation will enjoy.
Up Next: The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh (1973)
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