- Writer: David Hazan
- Artist: Shane Connery Volk
- Colorist: Luca Romano
- Letterer: Joamette Gil
- Editors: Chris Fernandez and Brian Hawkins
- Designer: Diane Bermudez
Thanks to Mad Cave Studios for the review copy!
NOTTINGHAM continues to be a unique take on the Robin Hood story. Told from the perspective of the Sheriff of Nottingham, the story takes the key elements we all know and twists them. Robin Hood and his Merry Men are recast as violent anarchists. Unlike most depictions of the story, the Sheriff isn’t a dolt – rather, he is a clever investigator and effective military tactician.
This issue puts the NOTTINGHAM stamp on another standard from prior Robin Hood stories – the archery tournament with the prize money as bait. As can be expected, the Merry Men show up. But this time, the result is different from anything I’ve seen before. This provides the vehicle for some of the best, bloodiest action in the series yet. The art once again stands out. The two sides’ plans are effectively shown on the page, and it is no small feat to depict large scale battle scene strategy. The movement is smooth and visceral (there’s a lot of gore in this issue).
While a lot of this issue is devoted to battle, there is some detective work thrown in, as well as a big reveal at the end of the issue. Interestingly, Robin Hood himself remains a bit of a cypher and his Merry Men are hidden by masks (which gives off a V for Vendetta vibe). It’s kind of like Jaws – I really want to see figure out what Robin Hood is all about, but the series is better for keeping him mysterious.
NOTTINGHAM continues to bring something new to the often adapted Robin Hood legend. I highly recommend this title, though parental discretion is advised due to the violence.
NOTTINGHAM #4 is set for release on June 16th, 2021.
Check back in a few weeks for my thoughts on the 5th (and final) issue of the series.
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