Four Hollywood studios plan new Robin Hood films

It's the news legions of Robin Hood fans around the world have been waiting for . . . no less than four major Hollywood studios have announced that they are planning to make films about Nottinghamshire's famous outlaw. Warner Brothers, Sony, Disney and Lionsgate could be making major Robin Hood productions with new takes on the popular legend. Although the Warner Brothers' film has yet to be given a name, Sony is set to release Hood, which will see Robin Merry Men given an Avengers makeover, while Lionsgate is producing Robin Hood: Origins and Disney is planning a Pirates of the Caribbean-style film called Nottingham and Hood. Following the announcement, Experience Nottinghamshire's chief executive Jennifer Spencer said: "The myth and legend of Robin Hood is known world-wide. Far more than a simply a story of thieves and outlaws, Robin Hood explores the themes of inequality in society and standing up for the under-dog. "As classic folklore, Robin Hood will continue to be explored by film-makers, playwrights, poets and actors for many years to come. We are sure that the release of a Warner Bros film will be a great asset to Nottingham, helping to boost visitors to the region -  not only to see some of the places where Robin Hood and his Merry Band of Men reportedly lived and committed their crimes, but also to enjoy the many other attractions Nottinghamshire has to offer." But if you can't wait to see until the films' releases to see this timeless legend brought to life then make sure you put the date of the Robin Hood Festival in your diary. Held in his iconic home, Sherwood Forest, this free event makes for the perfect summer holiday treat. Now in its 31st year, the annual festival will take place from 3rd to 9th August, with a week of medieval merriment, jousts and duels between Robin Hood and his arch enemy the Sheriff of Nottingham plus lots of other entertainment for the whole family. People come from across the world to visit Sherwood Forest with more than 350,000 visitors a year, and the country park is also home to the famous Major Oak tree which sheltered Robin from the Sheriff and his men, and is the current Great British Tree of the Year from the Environmental Partnership Association following a public vote. Sherwood Forest  is a National Nature Reserve, and a Site of Special Scientific Interest which means it wouldn't be possible to film a blockbuster there - however, Nottinghamshire County Council, which runs the attraction, welcomes small crews to film areas of the forest. Read more about plans for new Robin Hood films in our previous blog posts: New Robin Hood film in the pipeline for Steven Spielberg Will there really be a Robin Hood sequel?