A Comedy Rendition of Robin Hood: Mel Brooks’ When Things Were Rotten

When Things Were Rotten, a 1987 film directed by and starring Mel Brooks, presents a satirical take on the classic medieval legend of Robin Hood. This film delves into the realm of Mid-Evil times with a comedic twist, providing a refreshingly different portrayal of one of history's most beloved figures. Critics praised the movie for its clever humor and inventive storyline, while its low ratings led to an unfortunate cancellation. This article explores the work behind When Things Were Rotten and its unique approach to the Robin Hood mythos.

The making and reception of When Things Were Rotten

The idea of a Mel Brooks adaptation of Robin Hood was a bold venture that many thought would fail. Brooks, known for his satirical and comedic films, took a leap into the world of the greenwood with his own comedic take on the legendary archer. The film was produced by Brooks and Jon Landau, with Brooks also serving as a co-writer. It was his first attempt at producing a film based on a medieval legend, making it all the more intriguing.

The film premiered in 1987 and received mixed reviews from critics. While it was seen as a creative and humorous take on the story, it wasn't successful in terms of audience appeal. The movie's lower ratings led to its cancellation, meaning it remains a cult classic that fans of Brooks and fans of the Robin Hood legend can appreciate. It's worth noting that despite the cancellation, many believe the film has its merits and is far from a complete failure.

Cast and Characters

The cast of When Things Were Rotten features a number of notable actors and characters. Dick Gautier stars as Robin Hood, a character whose irreverent and bumbling nature contrasts sharply with the traditional depiction of the noble outlaw. Dick Van Patten plays Friar Tuck, a character known for his comedic antics and hearty appetite, who here is portrayed with even more gusto. Bernie Kopell brings comedic energy to the role of Alan a Dale, Robin Hood's sidekick. Misty Rowe takes on the role of Maid Marian, a character transformed into a comedic neighbor who is often in the wrong place at the wrong time.

The MS-DOS title screen for the film is bold and humorously outdated, written in a font reminiscent of what might have been used in the 1980s. This detail adds to the film's nostalgic and whimsical charm, signifying its departure from the traditional medieval setting and the high expectations viewers might have had for a film so heavily rooted in a historical period.

Spoofing the Legend

When Things Were Rotten combines the essence of the Robin Hood legend with a parody of medieval times, creating a world that is both recognizable and absurd. The film satirizes the romances of chivalry, the outdated technology, and the heavy accents of medieval characters. Much like other works by Brooks, the film delves into the fantastical and the over-the-top, making no pretense of historical accuracy.

The film's approach to the Mid-Evil Times is as much a satire of the period as it is a tribute to the original legend. Scenes of coconuts being catapulted and the use of flintlock pistols (anachronisms in a period where wire was rare) add an extra layer of humor to the already comedic characters and plot.

Related Works

While When Things Were Rotten was the first attempt at this type of Robin Hood parody, it paved the way for future creative takes on the legend. In the 1990s, a movie titled "Robin Hood: Men in Tights" was released, further cementing the trend of robots in chivalry. Both films share a similar spirit of outlandish humor and parody, albeit "Men in Tights" was a bit more farcical and slightly less reliant on historical accuracy.

"Men in Tights" stars Mike Myers, quan J-M. Perry, and a whole cast of characters in an exaggeration of the chivalric code and social mores of the medieval period. The film's release was well-timed, capitalizing on the success and creativity of When Things Were Rotten while taking the concept of a comedic Robin Hood film to new extremes.

Conclusion

When Things Were Rotten is a testament to Mel Brooks' ability to blend humor and satire in a format that pays homage to the classic Robin Hood legend. While it initially faced challenges in terms of its content and ratings, it has since become a cherished cult classic, appreciated for its creative take on the familiar tale. The film's unique blend of historical anachronisms, irreverent humor, and memorable characters has fostered a dedicated audience for these special versions of the Robin Hood story.