In the making of Kevin Costner's medieval epic, "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves," the cast and crew faced a myriad of challenges that contributed to a behind-the-scenes struggle throughout filming. The ambitious production aimed for historical accuracy in recreating Sherwood Forest, but unforeseen issues and pressures mounted from the very beginning.
The meticulously crafted set of Sherwood Forest's camp brought the 12th-century surroundings to life, complete with low-lying hovels, wildlife, and children playing in the mud. However, the authenticity was disrupted on the first day of shooting in Burnham Beeches, Buckinghamshire, just 10 miles from Heathrow Airport. The unexpected change in wind patterns forced air traffic controllers to redirect flights directly over the set, causing disruption and frustration.
One particular incident involved the intrusion of a massive 747 jet, creating a distinct clash between the medieval scene and the modern world. This unplanned interruption added to the film's already delayed schedule, putting the filmmakers under increased pressure.
Kevin Costner, portraying a 12th-century woodsman, maintained his composure during the on-set challenges, even flashing his signature smile as the jet engines roared overhead. However, during a lunch break, he expressed his concerns about the fast-paced filming and the reliance on weather conditions, emphasizing the potential risks involved.
Director Kevin Reynolds, a longtime friend of Costner's, also grappled with the mounting difficulties. Struggling to maintain order and meet the tight schedule, Reynolds acknowledged the compromises inherent in bringing a vision to life on screen. The pressure to finish the film by Christmas added to the stress, with the days growing shorter.
Their collaboration on "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves" marked a continuation of their friendship, with Reynolds having previously given Costner his breakthrough role in "Fandango" and assisting with directing on "Dances With Wolves." Despite initial reservations about taking on a Robin Hood project, Reynolds was drawn to the medieval setting and the prospect of creating a unique action film.
As the production progressed, the challenges persisted, testing the resilience of the cast and crew. The behind-the-scenes struggles on "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves" offer a glimpse into the complexities of bringing a historical epic to the big screen, where even the most carefully crafted sets can be disrupted by unexpected real-world obstacles.
