The Prince and the Pauper

The Prince and the Pauper, directed by William Keighley and William Dieterle, is a heartwarming tale of swapped identities, friendship, and the resolution of a kingdom's future that hit theaters in 1937. It is based on Mark Twain's 1881 novel of the same name. A lavish production from Warner Bros, this film showcases Errol Flynn, Claude Rains, and Henry Stephenson in key roles, and captures the spirit of the classic novel with a charming narrative, heartwarming performances, and dramatic turns that leave audiences in a state of suspense and awe.

The movie starts with a chance meeting between two young boys, Edward, Prince of Wales (Billy and Bobby Mauch) and Tom Canty (Billy and Bobby Mauch again), a pauper living in the grubby streets of London. Both boys bear a striking resemblance to each other. The striking similarity leads them to swop places in a moment of ingenuity, sparking the movie's adventurous plot.

Errol Flynn plays the swashbuckling character of Miles Hendon, a roguishly charming and brave nobleman, who comes into contact with the pauper masquerading as the Prince. Flynn, with his superior acting skills, creates an unforgettable image of the dashing, heart-of-gold hero, making his part one of the movie's highlights. He ultimately becomes a model of gallantry, not only with his physical prowess but also his unwavering loyalty to the true prince.

The illustrious cast is further enhanced by Claude Rains. He beautifully emotes as Earl of Hertford, a manipulative and ambitious noble, who is besotted with the idea of maintaining his influence and power in the court, regardless of the deeper political ramifications. His clinical portrayal of an urbane antagonist elevates the drama and intrigue in the film.

Henry Stephenson in the role of kindly and wise Duke of Norfolk, brings an exquisite charm and gravity to his performance. As the state’s elder, his character act as a moral compass providing threads of hope and wisdom as the plot thickens.

As the film progresses, viewers are pulled into a world where royal masquerades have far-reaching effects. The narrative masterfully distinguishes between the two vastly different worlds - the stark reality of poverty and the burden of royalty. The dramatic contrast is best depicted in the scenes depicting the rich, luxurious royal court and the squalid, grimy streets of London. The court sequences, with their grand set-pieces, elaborate costumes, and intricate mannerisms, are beautifully shot, and in sharp contrast, the gritty reality of 16th-century London is starkly presented.

Keighley and Dieterle deal with Twain's satirical take on monarchy and class with an impressive blend of comedy, drama, and action. The artful mixing of humor with more serious socio-political elements provides the audience with a balanced and thoughtful viewing experience.

Episodic in nature, the movie spins a tale where irony, hilarity, and suspense ensue, as the real prince experiences a life of hardship while the pauper stumbles through the protocols and luxuries of royalty. As the fascinating journey unfolds, both come to understand the challenges and tribulations that each other's worlds entail. The shifting perspectives on privilege and poverty, weave a narrative that is both entertaining and reflective.

The film’s screenplay crackles with wit and drama, keeping the audience engaged and on their toes as it delves into state affairs, heroism, substantial character development, breathtaking combat sequences, and an experience of human kindness and cruelty alike. Erich Wolfgang Korngold’s magnificent musical score enhances the film, setting the tone for the drama and tension throughout.

With impressive performances from the entire cast, the compelling narrative of The Prince and the Pauper makes it evergreen, a treat for both young and old viewers. Errol Flynn's enchanting portrayal of Miles Hendon, Billy Mauch's convincing performances as both prince and pauper, and the marvel that is Claude Rains as the scheming Earl, create an unforgettable cinematic experience.

In conclusion, The Prince and the Pauper is a marvel of 1930s cinema. Filmed majestically in black-and-white, the movie brings Twain's time-honored tale to life with an adroit touch, deftly balancing humor, pathos, adventure, and thought-provoking social commentary. It's a must-see for any film aficionado and a delightful way for those not familiar with Twain's narratives to be introduced to his work, making it a timeless classic of Hollywood's golden age.