Robin of Locksley, portrayed by Kevin Costner, is an English nobleman who joins King Richard the Lionheart's forces during the Third Crusade. Captured and imprisoned in Jerusalem with his ally Peter, Robin cleverly orchestrates an escape, saving a Moor named Azeem, played by Morgan Freeman, in the process. Meanwhile, Peter perishes in the attempt, prompting Robin to promise to protect his sister, Marian, portrayed by Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio.
Returning to England, Robin discovers the oppressive rule of the Sheriff of Nottingham, acted by Alan Rickman, who is backed by his cousin Guy of Gisbourne, played by Michael Wincott, the witch Mortianna, performed by Geraldine McEwan, and the corrupt Bishop of Hereford. Tragedy strikes as Robin learns of his father's death and the destruction of his home at the hands of the Sheriff's men. He encounters Duncan, his father's elderly servant, who has been blinded by Gisbourne, and together they visit Marian's home, where Robin honors Peter's memory by giving her his brother’s ring.
A sudden chase leads Robin and Azeem into the haunted depths of Sherwood Forest, where they cross paths with a group of outlaws led by John Little, played by Nick Brimble. Robin's cleverness allows him to outsmart the larger John, humorously nicknaming him "Little John." Among the bandits is Will Scarlet, portrayed by Christian Slater, later revealed to be Robin's half-brother. Robin steps into a leadership role, motivating his newfound allies to rise against Nottingham. They form a small community in the trees of Sherwood and begin retaliating against the Sheriff's tyranny.
Disguised, Robin visits the local cathedral to speak with Marian, but an unexpected encounter with the Sheriff leads to a daring escape where he takes bread to his men. Faced with the realization that his actions may endanger his followers, Robin urges them to embrace a greater fight for justice. As they plot to rob the Sheriff’s loyal lords, Robin’s reputation grows. Despite the Sheriff’s attempts to set a bounty on him, Robin earns the loyalty of the people by redistributing the stolen wealth.
In a thrilling twist, Robin's band manages to capture Friar Tuck, depicted by Michael McShane, while raiding a convoy transporting gold. They utilize the forest’s natural cover to avoid Gisbourne’s men. Meanwhile, Marion showcases her prowess, easily subduing Robin's unprepared men when she seeks him out in Sherwood. Their romantic reunion brings warmth amid the escalating conflict.
As the Sheriff becomes increasingly desperate, he hires Celtic warriors and exploits Duncan to locate the outlaws' hideout, launching an aggressive assault that devastates their refuge. Although Robin saves a villager during the battle, the subsequent flames destroy their haven. The situation intensifies when the Sheriff captures Marian, forcing her to consider marrying him to save the captured woodsmen from execution. Unbeknownst to the Sheriff, Robin and his loyal companions have survived, and Will, tortured but determined, reveals Marian's predicament.
Plans are forged for a daring rescue as Robin’s men infiltrate Nottingham castle disguised for the impending wedding. With an explosive cacophony, they launch a fierce fight that frees their comrades, and Azeem's resolve inspires the villagers to revolt against the Sheriff. In the ensuing chaos, Robin confronts the Sheriff in a fierce duel, ultimately avenging his father's fate. But danger persists as Mortianna attempts to end Robin's life, only to be saved by Azeem, bridging their bonds forged through loyalty and courage.
In the aftermath of triumph, Robin and Marian declare their love amidst the serene backdrop of the forest, uniting in marriage with Friar Tuck officiating. Their joyous celebration is momentarily interrupted by King Richard I, portrayed by Sean Connery, who arrives to bless their union and express gratitude for Robin's valiant deeds. The tales of heroism and sacrifice reverberate in the hearts of the people as they begin to rebuild their lives free from tyranny.
