Monday, June 14, 2010

The Court Jester (1955, U.S.)

I saw this film for the first time when I was 10 years old, and I loved it from that moment until this day.

Danny Kaye was a funny, talented man, and this one showcases his talent like nothing I've ever seen.

The basic plot is that the rightful kind of England, an infant with a purple pimpernel birthmark, has had his throne taken by an evil man. A group in the forest, led by a Robin Hood-type character, is trying to restore the throne to the baby. Somehow, a sweet and somewhat simple man named Hawkins (Kaye) ends up posing as the king's new court jester, to infiltrate the court. The princess falls for Hawkins, the king falls for Hawkins' partner in crime, the princess's maid is a witch who starts casting spells and poisoning cups. This is where one of the best comic scenes in history happens. "The pellet with the poison's in the vessel with the pestle. The chalice from the palace is the brew that is true!" But then one cup breaks, and we have to worry about the flagon with the dragon!

Add song, dance, more witty dialogue, and some classic physical comedy and this has to be one of the best comedies of all time. Like I said, I love it.

Rating: 4.5

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