Robin of Sherwood (1984-1986)
To me, this is the real Robin Hood! Forget the Disney version, forget the Costner thing, this is it! I remember cozying up in front of the TV watching Robin of Sherwood when I was a kid. One of the few exceptions to the "no TV during dinner"-rule.
I guess this is kind of corny by today's standards, but that's just part of the charm. The tempo is fairly mellow, and they get a lot less done in a 50+ minute episode, than a modern show will manage in a 42 minute episode, but I don't care. A perfect Robin (Michael Praed), the best Marion ever (Judi Trott), and a charming band of merry men (including a baby-faced Ray Winstone) keep me entertained. Also, the inclusion of black magic, forest spirits, and other supernatural elements keeps the show fresh and interesting. Robin is not just a nice guy. His fate is tied to the Sherwood forrest in a way I haven't seen in any other version.
Fans of the series are in for a real treat, as the show has received the royal treatment on Bluray. The original 16mm film elements have been restored to their former glory, and even though the result still pales compared to modern HD material, it's safe to say that the show has never looked better - Even back when it was brand new.
The series is available from Network in England in two box sets. The first box covers series one and two, featuring Michael Praed as Robin of Loxley, while the third and final season gets its own box. They each run 13 episodes. The special features include audio commentaries, documentaries - with the restored film-clips added - original scrips, outtakes and hundreds of stills. This is hands down THE best treatment of an older TV shows I have ever laid eyes on. Magnificent.
Never forget to love it.
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