There are a number of characters whose stories have taken on a mythical life of their own over the years, like Jesus, Santa Claus and Banksy.

Another is Robin Hood; there has been no definitive evidence that he ever existed, and yet tales of his escapades have become stuff of legend. So much so that he has appeared on our screens every decade since his first appearance in a 1908 silent film. And here’s another one, focusing on the latter years of his life.

Having lived an eventful life, Robin Hood (Hugh Jackman) finds himself in solitude, in a weary state. His legend precedes him however, as he still finds himself a target for the many, many wrongs he has done.

His path crosses that of old friend Little John (Bill Skarsgård), who asks him for his help, which leads him into a fight, that leaves Robin gravely wounded.

John transports him to an island, a sanctuary from pursuers, where prioress Sister Brigid (Jodie Comer) tends to his wounds. But when you have a legend as big as Robin’s, there’s nowhere that his past can’t find him.

Michael Sarnoski’s take on Robin Hood is an interesting one; he considers himself very much a dangerous outlaw, and certainly no hero that folklore has created. Jackman certainly looks the part, albeit way of The Witcher’s Geralt and an ancient Greek god, grey-haired and long bearded, looking tired of this world. That said, his northern accent isn’t entirely convincing, straying off the path, much like his character.

The story may well be more accurate than most, considering so little is known about him, making it an intriguing watch. Less so is the pacing.

It’s annoyingly slow, and that’s if you’re already prepared for it not to be an action flick, which it isn’t. It takes its time for anything to happen, with just too much stillness about the whole thing. Dialogue is sparse, with much of the film relying on the angst-ridden face of Jackman to convey; that’s not taking away anything from the talented Jackman, but that’s a whole lot of angst for a two hour film.

And even though it’s refreshing for Hood to disclaim his hero status, it would have been interesting to delve into his back story to reveal what made him bad exactly, to give his current mindset some context.

It’s a bold vision, especially considering it’s only the third film written and directed by American Sarnoski (Pig and A Quiet Place: Day One), but its lack of energy and engaging dialogue means it’s way harder work than it should be.

It’s no wonder then that it’s an A24 film, fitting in with their portfolio of dreary folk horror, with not a lot going on.

Jackman looks great though, and Comer proves once again that there’s more to her than just Villanelle, and although an interesting premise, this version of Robin Hood just doesn’t quite hit the target.