Newon DVD: ‘Robin Hood’ update steals to create rich film

A new take on Robin Hood tops DVD releases for Feb. 19.

• “Robin Hood”: Director Otto Bathurst (“Black Mirror”) opted to make his “Robin Hood” a production that embraces all the common elements of the story of Robin of Loxley (Taron Egerton), Marian (Eve Hewson) and all the supporting players including the evil Sheriff of Nottingham (Ben Mendelsohn), but presents them with a modern touch. Bathurst’s approach is to present a story set in the Middle Ages where elements from firefights to wardrobe appeal to a modern audience.

Casting Egerton to play Robin was a smart move. He has the kind of boyish charms Tom Cruise shows off in his action movies, and he’s created a foundation with his work in the “Kingsman” franchise.

If your idea of a Robin Hood story is a group of Merry Men hanging around in Sherwood Forest waiting for an opportunity to enter an archery contest, this will leave you heading to the little john. Looking at the work as a mashup of a traditional story with a contemporary approach makes for mindless fun.

Also on DVD

• “A Star Is Born”: Lady Gaga stars in this latest version of the story of fame and falling in love.

• “Sgt. Will Gardner”: Iraq War veteran’s (Max Martini) journey of recovery is sidelined by his battle with PTSD.

• “Overlord”: Team of American paratroopers comes face to face with Nazi super-soldiers.

• “American Masters: Sammy Davis, Jr.: I’ve Gotta Be Me”: First major film documentary to examine the performer’s vast career.

• “NOVA: Operation Bridge Rescue”: Bridge built in 1855 is repaired after being destroyed by a hurricane.

• “The Return of the Vampire”: Bela Lugosi stars in the 1943 film about a vampire revived during a London Blitz.

• “The Last Race”: Documentary on a small-town stock car racetrack and the drivers that race there.

• “Can You Ever Forgive Me?”: Author’s realization she’s no longer popular leads to lies, deceit and criminal actions to get back on top. Melissa McCarthy.