The Scarlet Pimpernel (TV 1982)

During the French Revolution, a mysterious English nobleman known only as The Scarlet Pimpernel (a humble wayside flower), snatches French aristos from the jaws of the guillotine, while ... See full summary »

Director:

Clive Donner

Writers:

William Bast (teleplay), Baroness Emmuska Orczy (novels)

Stars:

Anthony Andrews, Jane Seymour, Ian McKellen

Won 1 Primetime Emmy. Another 2 nominations.

Cast

Cast overview, first billed only:
Anthony Andrews	...	Sir Percy Blakeney / The Scarlet Pimpernel
Jane Seymour	...	Marguerite St. Just
Ian McKellen	...	Chauvelin
James Villiers	...	Baron de Batz
Eleanor David	...	Louise
Malcolm Jamieson	...	Armand St. Just
Denis Lill	...	Count de Tournay
Ann Firbank	...	Countess de Tournay
Richard Morant	...	Robespierre
Julian Fellowes	...	The Prince Regent
Timothy Carlton	...	Count de Beaulieu
David Gant	...	Fouquet
John Quarmby	...	Ponceau
Gordon Gostelow	...	Duval
Carol MacReady	...	Mme. Duval

Storyline

During the French Revolution, a mysterious English nobleman known only as The Scarlet Pimpernel (a humble wayside flower), snatches French aristos from the jaws of the guillotine, while posing as the foppish Sir Percy Blakeney in society. Percy falls for and marries the beautiful actress Marguerite St. Just, but she is involved with Chauvelin and Robespierre, and Percy's marriage to her may endanger the Pimpernel's plans to save the little Dauphin.

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Plot Keywords:

scarlet pimpernel | aristocrat | english | french revolution | robespierre | 

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Genres:

Romance | Drama | Action

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Certificate:

Not Rated

Details

Country:

UK

Language:

English

Release Date:

9 November 1982 (USA)

Also Known As:

A skarlát virág

Filming Locations:

Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxfordshire, England, UK

Company Credits

Production Co:

Edgar J. Scherick Associates, London Film Productions

Technical Specs

Runtime:

142 min

Sound Mix:

Mono

Color:

Color

Aspect Ratio:

1.33 : 1

Did You Know?

Trivia

John Quarmby worked two weeks.

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Goofs

During the ride to the picnic, tracks from mowing equipment can be seen in the neatly cut grass.

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Quotes

Sir Percy: My dear chap, I never would have dreamt of depriving you of your moment of triumph. Alas, a moment was all I could spare.

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Connections

Version of The Scarlet Pimpernel (1999)

User Reviews

Far Excedes the standard of the original telling.

This is a stylish and adorable making that leaves behind it's 1930's original. The period stays intact, you have to pity Chauvelin played by Ian McKellan, the man born to play the role, you believe every step he takes. Jane Seymour, one time Bond Girl does not come off as great but she has a unique beauty and adds strength to the piece. Much of the credit should go to Anthony Andrews, the likeable Brittish actor who turns in a mocking and delightfull performance, an instant great. You can never tell that this movie was made for TV, production values are optimal and much time was spent expanding the story to reach entertainment max.

You never for a second do not believe that sir Percival Blakne is "an utter fool", classic fop, and useless drop kick and then you never for a second do not believe he is 100% competent, a reliable saviour but at the same time vulnerable in his loyalty to his cause. This movie is the definitive proof that you do not need action to have an enduring and entertaining flick, but at the same time they could not resist the numerous enjoyabole sword fights not to mention the redefinition of fun with the climactic duel. The whole 1st rate quality of entertainment in this movie makes it an instant classic as he wrestles with his damned cravat or takes on three roughians as though in rehearsal for competition.

A 10/10 delight.