The Prince and the Pauper (1977 film) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids The Prince and the Pauper |
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US theatrical poster
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| Directed by | Richard Fleischer |
| Produced by | Pierre Spengler |
| Written by | Berta Dominguez D. & Pierre Spengler (original screenplay) George MacDonald Fraser (final screenplay) |
| Starring | Mark Lester Ernest Borgnine Oliver Reed Raquel Welch Rex Harrison |
| Music by | Maurice Jarre |
| Cinematography | Jack Cardiff |
| Editing by | Ernest Walter |
| Studio | International Film Production Prince and the Pauper Film Export A.G. |
| Distributed by | 20th Century Fox |
| Release date(s) | 3 June 1977 (London) 17 March 1978 (U.S.) |
| Running time | 113 minutes |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Language | English |
| Budget | $7 million or $8 million |
The Prince and the Pauper (also known as Crossed Swords) is a 1977 British adventure movie. It was directed by Richard Fleischer. The film is based on the famous 1881 book The Prince and the Pauper by Mark Twain. It tells the story of two boys who look exactly alike. One is a prince, and the other is a poor boy. The movie stars Mark Lester in the dual role of both Prince Edward and Tom Canty. Other famous actors like Oliver Reed, Ernest Borgnine, Raquel Welch, George C. Scott, Charlton Heston, and Sir Rex Harrison also appear.
Contents
What is The Prince and the Pauper about?
This exciting movie takes place in 16th century London, England. It follows the adventures of two boys who look exactly alike but live very different lives.
Tom Canty's Life
Tom Canty is a poor boy who lives in the city. He often reads stories to other children. His father, John Canty, wants Tom to steal money. One day, Tom tries to steal a purse. He is chased through the streets of London. Tom escapes by climbing into a palace garden.
Prince Edward's Life
Inside the palace, Prince Edward of Wales is getting ready for a party. Tom accidentally falls down a chimney into the Prince's room. Edward is amazed because Tom looks just like him! They decide to swap clothes and pretend to be each other. Edward wants to see what life is like outside the palace. Tom wants to experience being a prince.
The Switch and Its Problems
The boys swap clothes. Edward, dressed as Tom, is mistaken for the poor boy. He is thrown out of the palace. Luckily, a kind swordsman named Sir Miles Hendon rescues him. Meanwhile, Tom, dressed as the Prince, is inside the palace. He tries to tell everyone he is not the Prince, but no one believes him.
Adventures Outside the Palace
Edward, still pretending to be Tom, learns what life is like for poor people. He faces many challenges. Miles Hendon believes Edward's story, even though it sounds unbelievable. Edward meets different groups of people. He sees how hard life is for many in England.
The Prince's Return
Back at the palace, King Henry VIII becomes very ill. He orders that no one should say Tom is not the Prince. When the King dies, Tom is still pretending to be the Prince. Edward and Miles race back to London. Edward wants to reclaim his rightful place as King.
The Crowning Ceremony
On the day of the crowning, Edward arrives just in time. He stops the ceremony. He and Tom switch back to their original places. Edward proves he is the true Prince by showing a special royal seal. Everyone is amazed. Edward then becomes the rightful King.
What Happens Next?
After becoming King, Edward makes sure things are fair. He makes Tom the Head Governor of Christ's Hospital. This is a place that helps children. Tom's mother also helps set up shelters for people without homes. Sir Miles Hendon is honored for his loyalty. He becomes a Knight again and marries Lady Edith.
Who are the main characters?
The movie has many talented actors playing important roles.
- Oliver Reed as Sir Miles Hendon: A brave swordsman who helps Edward.
- Raquel Welch as Lady Edith: Miles Hendon's love interest.
- Mark Lester as Edward VI of England and Tom Canty: He plays both the Prince and the poor boy.
- Charlton Heston as King Henry VIII: Edward's father and the King of England.
- Ernest Borgnine as John Canty: Tom's father.
- George C. Scott as The Ruffler: A leader of a group of outlaws.
- Rex Harrison as The Duke of Norfolk: An important noble in the King's court.
- David Hemmings as Hugh Hendon: Miles's brother.
- Harry Andrews as Hertford: Another important noble.
- Julian Orchard as St. John: A palace official.
- Lalla Ward as Princess Elizabeth: Edward's sister.
- Felicity Dean as Lady Jane Grey: Another royal relative.
- Sybil Danning as Mother Canty: Tom's mother.
- Richard Hurndall as Archbishop Cranmer: A religious leader.
