A new Robin Hood film is coming: cast updates, release date and trailer

Something to make men (and women) merry this winter: Robin Hood is returning to the big screen for the second time in a decade on 21 November. Once again, it proves itself as a story that stands the test of time – an impressive feat, considering the outlawed do-gooder got his first mention in a medieval poem.

This latest project looks to depart from Ridley Scott's 2010 offering. The broody, almost grungy aesthetics, aided by a rugged Russell Crowe as the lead, have given way to a sharper, younger feel. Taron Egerton, best known for playing the rough-and-ready secret agent Eggsy in Kingsman, is taking on the role of Hood, already bringing a few moments of characteristic humour to the trailer. It is hard, though, to believe anyone looked quite that fresh-faced, or wore something so akin to a Barbour, in the 1500s.

Other cast members include Jamie Foxx (Baby Driver, Django Unchained), playing a slicker Little John than we’re used to, Jamie Dornn (The Fall, Fifty Shades Darker) as Will Scarlet, one of Hood’s merry men, and Eve Hewson (Bridge of Spies) as Maid Marian.

Music in the trailer, layered behind various montages of Hood with his bow and arrow, Hood kissing Marion and Hood exchanging quips with Little John, is reminiscent of Pirates of the Caribbean, as are the montages themselves: fun and fast paced. We can only hope that this historical adventure story will have as much charm.

What we can expect it to have, with Otto Bathurst at the helm – director of BAFTA award-winning Peaky Blinders –is style. So long as it follows up with substance, there’ll be no complaints here.