THE CLASSIC VILLAIN

King John has been portrayed many times on the silver screen

The Adventures of Robin Hood (1938)

This version of the classic English legend, starring Errol Flynn as Robin Hood, was a defining moment in cinematic history. Prince John is played by Claude Rains and is the main antagonist of the movie – the future king is portrayed as sinister, intelligent and full of contempt for his many enemies.

The Lion in Winter (1968)

This star-studded family drama digs into the plotting and counter-plotting of the Plantagenets, with Henry II, Eleanor of Aquitaine, Richard, John and Geoffrey all vying for power and influence. Nigel Terry’s John is something of a pawn in the schemes of his father and older brothers.

Robin Hood (1973)

A very different portrayal of Prince John than other versions, Disney’s Robin Hood has the prince taking the throne from his brother Richard. Also he’s a lion now. In this anthropomorphised rendition of the legend, John is depicted as cowardly, pampered and juvenile.

Robin Hood (2010)

Something of an amalgam of previous incarnations, Oscar Isaac brings a belligerent, petulant air to Prince John in Ridley Scott’s version of the Robin Hood story. Here the young prince is again a pawn in the games of others, namely King Philip II of France, who thinks John’s accession to the throne will destabilise England.

Ironclad (2011)

Finally breaking free of the Robin Hood story,

Ironclad depicts the events after the signing of Magna Carta as England descends into war. Paul Giamatti brings an interesting mixture of complete confidence and volatility to his portrayal of an older and wiser John at the peak of his power.