Hugh Jackman's R-rated action-thriller, The Death of Robin Hood, has achieved the number one spot on U.S. streaming charts shortly after its October 16 debut on HBO Max. The film, released theatrically in June, struggled at the box office but has now found significant traction on the streaming platform.
Despite Jackman's proven track record, including his extensive work as Wolverine in the X-Men franchise and recent box office success with Deadpool & Wolverine, The Death of Robin Hood garnered only $9.9 million against a $20 million budget during its theatrical run. This performance followed mixed critical and audience reception, reflected in its 69% score on Rotten Tomatoes.
Directed by Michael Sarnoski, known for Pig and A Quiet Place: Day One, The Death of Robin Hood offers a dark and gritty reimagining of the classic folk hero. The film's synopsis describes Robin Hood grappling with a past filled with crime and murder, seeking salvation after a near-fatal battle. The accompanying tagline, "Robin Hood is no hero," underscores the movie's departure from traditional portrayals of the character.
Starring alongside Jackman are Jodie Comer, Bill Skarsgård, Noah Jupe, and Murray Bartlett. The film's success on HBO Max suggests a renewed interest from audiences seeking a more mature take on the legendary outlaw.
Sarnoski is also attached to direct the live-action adaptation of the video game Death Stranding, with production anticipated to begin in 2027. While The Death of Robin Hood faced challenges in cinemas, its performance on streaming indicates a different kind of success for the A24 production.