Welcome to Sherwood! (2003)
*** 1/2 (out of 4)
Very informative documentary that can be found on Warner's 2-disc Special Edition of THE ADVENTURES OF ROBIN HOOD. Film historians Rudy Behlmer, Leonard Maltin, Bob Thomas and Robert Osbourne add their thoughts about the making of the classic film and by the time this film is over you feel as if you know everything there is to know. We learn that originally Warner wanted James Cagney to play Robin Hood but the film went into production during the infamous stage when the actor was refusing to work. They then decided to turn the film into an operetta with Jeanette MacDonald and Nelson Eddy but this too fell apart so after the success of CAPTAIN BLOOD the studio gave the part to Errol Flynn. From here we learn about the original direction, the failed first script, the music, the casting and the eventual release of the movie, which was a hit across the country. All four historians do a fantastic job at making sure every detail is discussed. Some of the most interesting aspects are those dealing with the early days of Warner and their gangster pictures and how the Hayes Office forced them to find entertainment without the violence. The stories about Cagney and original director Rowland V. Lee were also very entertaining. Fans of the classic film are certainly going to enjoy hearing all of these stories and if you're not familiar with the film then after watching this you'll certainly be tracking it down.
