‘The aim was to give Kevin Costner’s version a good kicking’: director John Irvin on his anti-Thatcher Robin Hood

Irvin's 'Robin Hood' serves as a fascinating case study in how films can reflect and respond to contemporary political climates. By positioning his narrative against the backdrop of Thatcher's policies, Irvin not only sought to differentiate his film from the Americanized version but also to engage audiences in a dialogue about social justice. The contrast between the two adaptations highlights the varying cultural interpretations of the Robin Hood mythos and the role of cinema in shaping public consciousness.