It was over a century ago when the character of Robin Hood first graced our screens, and yet he’s still a cinematic figure that feels as pertinent today as he ever has. To mark the latest retelling we sat down with the lead role himself, Taron Egerton, as well as the film’s director Otto Bathurst, to discuss what it is about Hood that has given him such longevity in the arts.

Egerton comments on the pressure of bringing something new to such a well-known icon, while Bathurst speaks about why he feels this is a character we still want to see on screen, after all this time. They discuss what is different about this specific reincarnation, and the balance in bringing something new to the franchise while at the same time adhering to the familiar tropes that audiences will hope for, and expect to see.

They also talk about the film’s relevance in the modern era, and Bathurst explains why he felt Egerton was the perfect fit for the title role. The latter also tells us what it was like spending so much time on set with Jamie Foxx, and on his affinity with Elton John, who he’ll be portraying soon in the forthcoming biopic Rocketman.

Watch the full interviews below:

Synopsis

Robin of Loxley (Taron Egerton) a war-hardened Crusader and his Moorish commander (Jamie Foxx) mount an audacious revolt against the corrupt English crown in a thrilling action-adventure packed with gritty battlefield exploits, mind-blowing fight choreography, and a timeless romance.

Robin Hood is released on November 21st