Michael Sarnoski has revealed why he decided to reinvent one of cinema’s most familiar heroes in The Death of Robin Hood, the upcoming A24 film starring Hugh Jackman as an ageing outlaw haunted by his past.
A Fresh Take on a Classic Legend
Speaking to Variety, the filmmaker behind Pig and A Quiet Place: Day One explained that he had long been fascinated by the lesser-known ballad detailing Robin Hood’s death. Rather than retelling the familiar tale of a noble thief stealing from the rich to help the poor, Sarnoski wanted to explore the character’s humanity and darker history.
According to the director, one of the earliest written references to Robin Hood described the figure as a “murderous cutthroat” who had nevertheless become glorified by ordinary people. That historical detail inspired Sarnoski to imagine what a real medieval outlaw might have looked like.
Hugh Jackman as a Gritty Outlaw
The film stars Hugh Jackman as a violent and exhausted Robin Hood who is far removed from the romanticised versions previously portrayed by stars such as Errol Flynn, Kevin Costner and Sean Connery. Sarnoski said Jackman possessed the ideal combination of toughness and compassion required for the role. “He could bring the viciousness that I needed,” the director explained, while also noting that Jackman’s warmth allowed audiences to believe the character was capable of redemption.
Production Details and Creative Choices
Produced for around $20m, the film was shot across remote areas of Northern Ireland over a 30-day schedule. Much of the story focuses on Robin recovering from his injuries at a secluded priory, where he forms an unexpected connection with a mysterious healer played by Jodie Comer.
Sarnoski said he intentionally avoided creating a large-scale blockbuster, preferring a smaller and more character-driven project with unusual elements. The title itself sparked debate during development. Some potential buyers reportedly worried that The Death of Robin Hood revealed too much about the story. However, Sarnoski remained committed to the name because it felt like a chapter from an old historical book. Once A24 joined the project, the studio embraced the title and backed the filmmaker’s vision.
Future Projects
Following the success of Pig and A Quiet Place: Day One, Sarnoski is already preparing his next collaboration with A24. He confirmed that he has completed a second draft of the screenplay for the live-action adaptation of the video game Death Stranding, which he hopes to film in Iceland and Northern Ireland next year.
