Film making

Of course, if you want an actor to play the part of a rogue, make sure he is Irish. Walt Disney knew this — that’s why he cast Richard Todd to play the titular role of Rob Roy, The Highland Rogue. Todd made a career of playing irascible rogues who struggle against tyranny with a smile. And, of course, he doesn’t disappoint in this 1953 classic.

Todd was a real rogue during his time as a paratrooper in World War Two. He served in the Seventh Battalion and was the officer who famously met Major Howard at the Orne Bridge. Funny thing, he played Howard in The Longest Day, completing the Brechtian circle of reality and surreality.

Don’t take my word for it. If you’re keen to see what the hullabaloo is all about, be sure to catch Todd as Rob Roy. While this was a minor role, it did prove his Errol Flynn chops. Now, while many of you may have qualms about Mr. Flynn, he did set the swashbuckling standard. To say that Todd plays it well is a great compliment.

Here is a bit of trivia for you. Todd was Ian Fleming’s personal choice to play James Bond. What stopped him from taking on the iconic role? Scheduling conflicts. A shame as he had a real knack for playing smoldering characters who could light-up when necessary. In fact, a year before he grew the goatee and played Rob Roy, he played Robin Hood.

Robin Hood or Rob Roy, Todd doesn’t disappoint. Now that Disney has released Rob Roy, The Highland Rogue on DVD, you can round out you Todd collection. Ok, while you might not have a Richard Todd collection, you could round out your Robin Hood or Disney collection. Or, if you’re an adventure buff, you will not be disappointed by this release.

When you watch Rob Roy: The Highland Rogue, you start to understand how good the old adventure, family films were. Kudos to Disney!