Russell Crowe stars as the famous outlaw Robin Hood this summer for director Ridley Scott in 'Robin Hood' 

Credit: Universal

I know that we're all supposed to harumph and say we hate "Gladiator" these days, at least based on the way the fanboy nation reacts every time it's mentioned, but forget that.  I loved "Gladiator" when it came out and I still think it's one of the most acutely entertaining moments of Ridley Scott's career.

I'm also on record as being a huge fan of the director's cut of "Kingdom Of Heaven," a film that was mistreated to a disturbing extent during its theatrical run.  Fox shot themselves in the foot on that one, because the shortre theatrical cut deserved to fail... it made no sense.  The longer version, though, is powerful and impressive, and almost overwhelming during the battle scenes.

Now it's back to the well for Ridley Scott and Russell Crowe, who could probably stand to have a box-office hit, and I'll admit... I'm having a hard time working up much enthusiasm for yet another rendition of "Robin Hood."  Then again, it's all about how the story is told, and I'll admit... there are two things that have me immediately interested:  Cate Blanchett and Mark Strong.  Both of them are exciting each and every time they work, and Strong in particular is on a roll right now.

So if you're curious, check it out at Apple.com, where the trailer made its official debut today, and where you can see it in HD.  "Robin Hood" arrives in theaters May 14, 2010.

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