GamerTab
That was an excellent one.
SoTrumpBelieve
Must See Movie...
Afouotos
Although it has its amusing moments, in eneral the plot does not convince.
Gutsycurene
Fanciful, disturbing, and wildly original, it announces the arrival of a fresh, bold voice in American cinema.
evanston_dad
Ronald Colman displays oodles of charm and carries this rousing swashbuckler about a man who must impersonate a king when the real king is kidnapped by a bunch of nefarious ne'er do wells. Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. is also quite good as Colman's chief rival, and uses his own good looks and charm to effect. Raymond Massey is the villain in this one, while David Niven shows why he went on to become a major star. Madeline Carroll and Mary Astor are the damsels in distress."The Prisoner of Zenda" received two Oscar nominations in 1937, one for Lyle Wheeler's art direction and the other for Alfred Newman's score.Grade: A-
thinker1691
This film is based on Anthony Hope's novel and directed by John Cromwell. Over the years, the story has been imitated with many versions. This Black and white offering is so well directed it plays as well in 1937 as in 2011. The lead is played most admirably by Ronald Colman who with his distinctive voice is both Major Rudolf Rassendyll and " The Prisoner of Zenda. " The plot is lead by Black Michael (Raymond Massey) who's facial features are suited for the part of a jealous villain. It is surprising however to see David Niven and Douglas Faitbanks Jr. on opposites sides, but each performs superbly even if Douglas does play a heavy. The inner story is that of a King who is slated for removal by duping the populace that because the king has been killed, Black Michael will assume the thrown in his absence. A later version will have Steward Granger in the title role and in color, but for me, Ronald Coleman will always be the Prisoner of Zenda in this Classic movie. Excellent rendition and highly recommended! ****
Lechuguilla
A lookalike cousin comes in handy when a king-in-waiting falls victim to tainted wine. Lots of pomp and ceremonial ritual add luster to this romantic adventure, set in Europe in the late nineteenth century.A convincing performance by Ronald Colman in dual roles helps. C. Aubrey Smith plays his usual gruff self, as Col. Zapt, who masterminds the devious scheme to prevent a villainous brother, effectively played by Raymond Massey, from ascending the throne. The impersonation plot has just enough suspense and humor to hold one's interest.There's more than a hint of romanticized nostalgia in the tone, helped along by regal background music. Consistent with the styles and customs of that historical era, costumes trend stiff and formal. B&W cinematography is quite impressive. Some scenes have a medieval look and feel, especially that island castle.The fencing match is stagy but fun. Both men seem to enjoy fighting to the death, exchanging clever quips. "Stand still and fight, you coward", says one character. His opponent responds: "Bad tempered fellow, aren't you, underneath the charm". This match goes on for several minutes, and is played in a tongue-in-cheek manner.For romantics everywhere, "The Prisoner Of Zenda" is a timeless classic. It's movie making in the old fashioned way, with a clever story, good acting, and some fine camera work.
edwagreen
Major disappointing swashbuckling romantic film with the great Ronald Colman playing 2 parts- a cousin who goes to Zenda to attend his cousin's coronation only to be involved when the monarch is kidnapped.Douglas Fairbanks plays the villain here who hatches the kidnap plot to help the evil half-brother, a sinister Raymond Massey usurp the throne. When Michael (Massey) finds Henzlau (Fairbanks) with his beloved Mary Astor, Masse is stabbed to death by Douglas.There are some good romantic scenes between the "Cousin" and Madeleine Carroll. Aubrey Smith, as a confidant to the king, provides an excellent supporting role.The film itself is quite drab at best. How Astor could truly love the sinister Michael is beyond belief.
