The Legend of Robin Hood (1968 film)
The Legend of Robin Hood (1968 film) is a six-part British television series produced by the BBC. It aired on BBC1 from 19 March to 23 April 1968. It starred Barrie Ingham as Robin Hood and was primarily filmed on location in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire.
Synopsis:
The series offers a relatively straightforward adaptation of the traditional Robin Hood legends. Robin of Loxley, a Saxon nobleman, is outlawed after resisting the Norman overlords. He flees to Sherwood Forest and gathers a band of men dedicated to fighting injustice, opposing the Sheriff of Nottingham and Prince John. The series depicts Robin's various adventures, including robbing from the rich to give to the poor, rescuing Maid Marian, and battling figures like Guy of Gisburne.
Cast:
- Barrie Ingham as Robin Hood
- Alan Wheatley as the Sheriff of Nottingham
- Leon Greene as Little John
- James Hayter as Friar Tuck
- Richard Beale as Will Scarlet
- Sarah Branch as Maid Marian
- Eric Flynn as Alan-a-Dale
- John Abineri as Sir Guy of Gisburne
Production:
The series was directed by Eric Crozier and produced by Peter Graham Scott. The relatively low budget meant that costumes and sets were simpler than later Robin Hood adaptations. The series was filmed in black and white.
Availability:
The Legend of Robin Hood (1968 film) is considered lost by the BBC. It was common practice at the time for the BBC to wipe and reuse tapes due to cost constraints. No known copies of the original broadcast exist.