The King and I (1956) 7.4
Musical about a widow who accepts a job as a live-in governess of the King of Siam's children. Director:Walter Lang |
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The King and I (1956) 7.4
Musical about a widow who accepts a job as a live-in governess of the King of Siam's children. Director:Walter Lang |
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| 0Share... |
| Complete credited cast: | |||
| Deborah Kerr | ... | ||
| Yul Brynner | ... | ||
| Rita Moreno | ... | ||
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Martin Benson | ... | |
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Terry Saunders | ... | |
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Rex Thompson | ... | |
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Carlos Rivas | ... |
Lun Tha
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Patrick Adiarte | ... | |
| Alan Mowbray | ... |
Sir John Hay
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Geoffrey Toone | ... | |
Mrs. Anna Leonowens and her son Louis arrive in Bangkok, where she has contracted to teach English to the children of the royal household. She threatens to leave when the house she had been promised is not available, but falls in love with the children. A new slave, a gift of a vassal king, translates "Uncle Tom's Cabin" into a Siamese ballet, expressing her unhappiness at being with the King. She attempts to escape with her lover. Anna and the King fall in love, but her British upbringing inhibits her from joining his harem. She is just about to leave Siam when she hears of the King's imminent death, and returns to help his son, her favorite pupil, rule his people. Written by Randy Goldberg <goldberg@nymc.edu>
Deborah Kerr and Yul Brynner give spirited performances in 'The King and I', a musical adaptation of Margaret Landon's book. Brynner in particular brings an athleticism and intensity to his role which won him an academy award. The two share an unusual chemistry. The film is dated but remains entertaining and ranks among the best musicals of the fifties. The music is very enjoyable with several catchy tunes which are well choreographed. I specially liked "A Puzzlement" and "Shall We Dance". Some parts are a bit corny but the film is still well worth watching.
Overall 8/10