Customer Reviews

The King and I (Widescreen Edition) [VHS]

5 star:		(151)
4 star:		(33)
3 star:		(11)
2 star:		(4)
1 star:		(4)

 

 

It's finally here! The so-called definitive version of this lovely classic has now been restored AGAIN from the surviving 55mm negative, and there is indeed cause for cheers. Yes, it is now finally anamorphic on DVD! And yes, it looks absolutely gorgeous! Better color, sharpness and contrast than the old DVD issued in 1999 - and that one still looks quite impressive thanks to THX, although sadly non-anamorphic. Even so, the new one looks superior and has lots more bonus material!
But now a sad warning: If you own the old DVD and want this beauty of a film in its complete roadshow version - keep it by all means! The new 50th Anniversary Edition lacks the Overture, the Intermission Music and the Exit Music!
Incredible! And all that lush music was available on the 1999 DVD! What goes on in the heads of the people in charge at Fox? After the fiasco with the Todd-AO "Oklahoma!" recently, Fox should very well know by now that fans of these Rodgers & Hammerstein-films are not likely to accept inferior and sloppy product. Here's a loud and clear boo aimed at Fox Home Video top brass from one fan! Get yourselves new jobs outside the entertainment industry and leave the DVD-business to smart film lovers who are also responsible professionals!

Rodgers and Hammerstein's THE KING AND I (1956) is a wonderous movie musical, an incredible adaption of the Broadway musical that premiered on stage in 1951 (and has been performed tens of thousands of times since). It tells a timeless story about tradition vs. modernity, Eastern vs. Western culture and men vs. women. This story was first written as the first-hand account of Anna Leonowens' experiences in Siam in the mid-19th Century, where she had been hired by King Mongkut to teach his many children, in his hopes to push Siam into the modern age. This account was first adapted for the big screen as ANNA AND THE KING OF SIAM (1946); unseen by me, it has been highly regarded in its own right, and starred Irene Dunne and Rex Harrison. THE KING AND I stars Deborah Kerr (last name pronounced "Carr") and Yul Brynner. Deborah Kerr completely embodies the strong-willed but emotionally fragile young widow Anna Leonowens; she makes Anna into a character with whom we identify and sympathize. We side with her in all disputes, from demanding that she be given her own house in which to stay as part of the original deal, to calling King Mongkut to task for enforcing double-standard sexual laws that were outdated and demeaning to women even at that time. As the equally strong-willed King Mongkut, Yul Brynner commands the screen in every scene he's in. You simply cannot look away. His King Mongkut is someone who wants to change Siam for the better, yet struggles to cling to many of the same traditions that he slowly begins to realize is partly responsible *for* holding Siam back. His heartbreak by film's end is emotionally gut-wrenching, and never fails to bring me to tears. The Russian-born, half-Mongolian Yul Brynner makes you believe he is a Siamese King; his performance is so brilliant that his transformation into this character appears to be almost effortless. And, of course, it won him a very well-deserved Oscar for Best Actor. Deborah Kerr gives a wide-ranged performance that spans all emotions throughout the course of this film. She was deservedly nominated for Best Actress, but unfortunately didn't win.

This film would have given us enough meat to chew on just in the complex relationship between our two principals alone. However, it is not content with just doing that for us. It gives us two spellbinding subplots, one of the forbidden love between Tuptim (a virtually unrecognizable Rita Moreno, in a truly marvelous performance) one of King Mongkut's many wives, and Lun Tha (Carlos Rivas), and the visit by the British Ambassador Sir John Hay (Alan Mowbray) whom King Mongkut wants to impress with how civilized he, and the Kingdom of Siam, is. Also, the "play within the play"; namely, the hypnotic Siamese theater performance of Harriet Beecher Stowe's epic American tale of oppression and cruelty UNCLE TOM'S CABIN, is just so incredible that words fail me as how else to describe it. Anna's young son Louis (Rex Thompson) provides us with an effective sounding-board onto whom Anna reveals the kind of feelings about the situation that she cannot express to the King.

Unfortunately, this or any other Western film treatment of this truly fascinating story continues to be banned in Thailand today, namely they feel that King Mongkut, whom I understand was one of their most beloved monarchs, is portrayed as a barbarian. I have two beefs with that sentiment: 1) King Mongkut is most decidedly *not* portrayed as a barbarian in this treatment (or in the 1999 non-musical ANNA AND THE KING, which is quite a brilliant film in its own right)---rather, he is shown to be a deeply conflicted man who agonizes at the prospect of losing centuries-old Siamese traditions, even as he expresses himself as one who wants to help his country modernize; 2) If they want to get the story right in their eyes, then where is the *Thai* version of the story?

Controversies aside, this is just a splendid, gorgeous film. It has great period costumes, in both Eastern and Western traditions. It has a huge, ornate set used for the Palace. It has great music ("Getting To Know You" and "Shall We Dance" are my two favorites). And it has incredible acting from all involved, especially Brynner, Kerr and Moreno (who should have been at least nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her sensitive and delicate protrayal of Tuptim). It is a joy to revisit every now & then. Parents, please do your children a favor and *keep them away* from the HORRENDOUS 1999 animated version, insultingly called THE KING AND I. That simpleminded, stereotype-laden, lamebrained version is a complete insult to anyone of decent intelligence. Just show your kids the 1956 original; it is the only version they will ever need to see!

MOST RECOMMENDED, AGES 6 & UP

This brand-new 50th Anniversary edition of THE KING AND I is a must for all fans of the timeless Rodgers and Hammerstein masterpiece. Widowed English schoolteacher Anna Leonowens (Deborah Kerr) travels to Siam after she is offered a position to tutor the children of the King (Yul Brynner). Once in Siam, Anna and the King clash on matters of politics, ethics and the heart...two very different individuals who manage to still find the very best in each other. This magical movie has never looked or sounded better, in a new DVD remaster. Audio commentary for the film is provided by Michael Portantiere and Richard Barrios.

This DVD has been available for a while in the UK and Australia, and will finally get a US release this November. Extra features will include the pilot episode of the "Anna and the King" TV series starring Samantha Eggar and Brynner (with optional commentary by Eggar); vintage performances from the "General Foods" Rodgers & Hammerstein TV tribute (Patricia Morison and Brynner). Several new featurettes and rare MovieTone news segments.

A long-awaited arrival on DVD, THE KING AND I is one of the best examples of stage-to-screen adaptation, except for one glaring fault - the trimming of the score! 20th Century-Fox spent lots of effort and money to bring this Rodgers and Hammerstein hit to the very wide CinemaScope 55 screen, and the various artists who worked on the project certainly put a stunning vision of the show up on that wide screen. Production and costume design are dazzling, the orchestrations are expansive in magnetic stereo (re-engineered for Dolby 5.1), the cast is simply perfect; overall a first rate presentation of the material. But at the last minute, the studio scrapped their original idea to roadshow the picture in 55mm, and some filmed numbers were dropped to shorten the overall length. This is always detrimental, not matter what the excuses for cutting, because it means that the show becomes less than complete. But even if we could overlook the cutting of the second half of "I Whistle a Happy Tune", "Western People Funny", and maybe "My Lord and Master", the deletion of Anna's biting "Shall I Tell You What I Think of You?" is inexcusable, and the cutting of the score's most beautiful ballad, "I Have Dreamed", is a genuine crime. One might have been hopeful that Fox would have restored, or at least included as outtakes, the missing numbers for DVD, but no such luck! The same fate has also befallen their recent release of the 1967 DOCTOR DOLITTLE.

All of that said, this is a gorgeous transfer of a beautiful film, both visually and sonically. The deluxe laserdisc set was very pretty, but the DVD image is much sharper and clearer. Unfortunately, few of the extras on the laserdisc were transferred to DVD, thereby leaving non-laserdisc fans in the dark regarding production, deleted scenes, photos from the deleted footage, and the entertaining explanation of the whole confusion with regard to roadshow vs. non-roadshow, the overture on the soundtrack album, and the lack of such accoutrements on the first run prints (which were in 35mm, reduced from the 55mm negative). Briefly, the decision to not send the film out 55mm hard-ticket was made far enough in advance so that overture, intermission, and exit music were not created for the 1956 release. The 1956 soundtrack album has all the songs, but the overture on that recording was done especially for the album, and never was intended for the film. People who swore they saw the film with these tracks were thinking of the 1962 re-release, blown up to 70mm Grandeur with 6-track stereo, that was presented on a reserved seat basis. This special re-release had overture, entr'acte, and exit music stitched together from the underscoring of the film, but still no deleted numbers from 1956! Nonetheless, this DVD actually holds the extra roadshow tracks, something that the laserdisc (being a faithful representation of the 1956 first run) did not carry, so that's another reason to see this version. Now if Fox Video would just find those missing songs...

Yul Brynner's performance in "The King And I" must stand out as one of a handful of truly memorable film performances. Rodgers and Hammerstein's sweeping musical/drama has been the subject of much critical debate. The Siamese continue to feel that both the play and the film present their monarch as a simple thug converted by colonialism as represented, at least here, by the stunning person of Deborah Kerr. As a musical this is definitely one of the all time greats. It's just such a shame that Fox, the company responsible for this DVD, hasn't realized this. The non-anamorphic DVD is loaded with digital imperfections, aliasing, shimmering, grain and dirt that make for a pretty dismal visual presentation. Also, extras are zero, not even a featurette or interviews. What a disappointment. This is definitely a title that needs to be revisited and soon.

Short of seeing this film on the big screen, there is only one way to see this film, and that is on dvd. The wide screen presentation is a treat for the eyes. The film is faithfully presented in it's original 2,55 aspect ratio, so you should have at leasr a 27' set to view this movie. I strongly dissagree with the reviewers that complained about the color. My dvd of the movie rendered the film with great detail and accurate vibrant color. Other than perhaps a little film grain, the picture is flawless. Keep in mind here that we are talking about a film that is about 43 years old.. The audio on this dvd is also first rate. The frequency range, signal to noise ratio, dynamic range, and soundstage are all very good. There is little if any audio didtortion. I wish I could say that for my copy of 2001 on dvd, which has a terrible soundtrack, and that film is twelve years newer. In conclussion, until you have seen The King And I in it's original wide screen format, you have not really seen The King And I.

"The King and I" is one of the greatest works of the American musical theater, a genre Rogers and Hammerstein changed by adding drama and complex characters along with their beautiful music and memorable lyrics. Based on Margaret Landon's classic "Anna and the King of Siam," this filmed adaptation of the Broadway show is exquisite, with a fabulous cast and extraordinary talent behind the camera as well, with the direction of Walter Lang, choreography by Jerome Robbins, and cinematography by Leon Shamroy. The costumes by Irene Sharaff are also a visual feast of lavish, sparkling jewels and silks.

Yul Brynner is magnificent as the King Mongut; his charisma and screen presence is riveting, and he well deserved his Best Actor Oscar. This was his signature role, and he played in on the stage over 4,000 times during his lifetime. Deborah Kerr (who was nominated for Best Actress) is also superb as Anna, the English widow who teaches the king's children. My favorite moment in the film is when Brynner first puts his arm around Kerr's waist, in the "Shall We Dance?" number, and their chemistry together sizzles more than many of the explicit love scenes we see on the screen today. The entire cast is fabulous, with the children captivating, and Rita Moreno a standout as Tuptim, the girl given to the king, but in love with another man.

The ballet that is the entertainment for the banquet guests is fantastic, and danced to perfection. A version of "Uncle Tom's Cabin," the choreography and the effects using fabric are a touch of genius. "The King and I" won 5 of its 9 Oscar nominations (Best Actor, Art Direction, Costume Design, Sound, and Scoring of a Musical), as well as some Golden Globes. Deborah Kerr's singing voice was dubbed by Marni Nixon (who also dubbed in "West Side Story," "My Fair Lady," and more), as was Rita Moreno, dubbed by Leona Gordon.

Also highly recommended is the dramatic 1946 film, "Anna and the King of Siam" with Irene Dunne and Rex Harrison. There was a rather disappointing remake in 1999, a mere shadow of the original, but is probably worth seeing as a comparison in how Landon's book (which is very high on my all time favorite list) has been adapted. It is not unusual for the filmed version of a Broadway production not to include all the original songs, and "The King and I" is no exception. What is included in the film however are some of the most loved melodies and lyrics written for the musical stage, and ones that we keep humming long after the show is over. Total running time is 133 minutes.

This is certainly one of the best musicals of all time. I know the motion picture is a little slow and drags at times, and may not be all that developed at some points, but I still rate it as one of my all-time fav. movies. To start with, Yul Brynner was born to play the arrogant, self-righteous King of Siam, and Deborah Kerr gives such a charming performance as Anna Leonowens, the British School Teacher, that both actors are perfect in every aspect and it's hard to imagine ANYONE else doing both roles better than they did. But when it comes to Anna, part of the credit goes to the ever-spectacular Marni Nixon who dubbed Kerr's singing voice. She is my fav. singer by far, and I know for certain that no other singer could have sung Anna's songs better than she did. That's a fact. Her smoothe, gentle voice has probably NEVER sounded better. Just listen to her 'Hello, Young Lovers' 'Getting to Know You' and 'Shall We Dance'. You will know what I mean. Plus, it's almost impossible to tell the difference between Kerr and Nixon as they're voices are so alike. Rita Moreno plays Tuptim, the King's Burmese Concubine who runs away with her lover, Lun Tha, the Emissary from the Court of Burma(Carlos Rivas). Moreno is undoubtedly the ultimate Tuptim, since she captures the character's characteristics very well. Terry Saunders made a pretty effective Lady Thiang, the head-wife, Rex Thompson made an amusing Louis Leonowens, and Martin Benson was splendid as the King's Prime Minister, the Kralahome, who is equally arrogant and self-righetous as the King himself. The only problem I have with the casting is Rueben Fuentes who dubbed Carlos Riva's singing voice. He is awful and sounds old. The direction by Robert Wise and the screenplay by Eernest Lehman are also superb. I think the way the musical was adapted into a motion picture was perfect. I know they had to cut off many wonderful songs such as MY LORD AND MASTER(Tuptim's solo), SHALL I TELL YOU WHAT I THINK OF YOU(Anna's soliquoly), THE ROYAL BANGKOK ACADEMY(School Song), I HAVE DREAMED(Tuptim and Lun Tha's second song) and WESTERN PEOPLE FUNNY(The Royal Wives' song), but the musical is adapted in such a way that one can hardly ever miss the songs, despite how grand they were. THE SMALL HOUSE OF UNCLE THOMAS - BALLET is also another highlight, and in any case, the whole story concerning a British Widow and an Asian Monarch falling in love is unique. I know that the ending is very sad and very emotional, but the truth is, it could NOT have been better, and I for one think it's one of the best 'endings' of all-time. In any case, the songs in THE KING AND I were considered the best songs Rodgers and Hammertsein ever wrote, and the musical is probably the most cherished of all-time. You've simply GOT to see this. It will stay in your head for a long, long time, and make you think alot too. It's well worth four stars, and even five stars wouldn't be too much depending on one's opinion. I think this is much, much better than THE SOUND OF MUSIC...

THE KING AND I was one of my earlier introductions to the great body of work, from the team of Rodgers and Hammerstein. This film showcases Deborah Kerr, as Anna Leonowens (with the singing voice of Marni Nixon--the "ghost singer" for many Hollywood starlets) and Yul Brynner, as the King of Siam, at his bald-headed best. This is the musical remake of ANNA AND THE KING OF SIAM, made in 1946, starring Irene Dunne (as Anna Leonowens) and Yul Brynner (as The King of Siam).

THE KING AND I brings important social issues, as relevant in 1862 (the year that the story is set) as they are today. Though, dated in nature, this wonderfully engrossing tale examines racism, sexism and misogyny, as experienced through the eyes of British governess Anna Leonowens, who arrives in Siam (now Thailand) to teach the king's brood of children about history and valuable life lessons. One of the most well-known songs from this film is "Getting To Know You," a sweet, upbeat song, where Anna teaches the children to be more open-minded toward people outside of what is comfortable and familiar to them. I think that best illustrates Leonowens' view of the world, and how it vastly contrasts from the views more commonly voiced in the castle of the king. For starters, The King has many, many, many wives. This includes a beautiful new wife, the young Tuptim (Rita Moreno), who is secretly in love with another man--a forbidden romance. The king keeps wives like he would livestock, and Anna is appalled by this common custom. She sets out to break down the kings' machisimo. But, will she succeed?

Some of the most beautiful music I have ever heard from Rodgers and Hammerstein. The songs include "We Kiss In the Shadow," "Shall We Dance" (made famous by the wonderful dancing sequence, involving Deborah Kerr in a beautiful purple gown, shasaying with an enthusiastic king), and "I Have Dreamed." This film is beautifully acted, marvelously directed, and greatly engaging.

Of the four major screen adaptations of Rodgers and Hammerstein's Broadway classics, I think this is the finest, and probably the truest to its roots, yet adds Hollywood's special gloss. Luckily, Oscar-winner Yul Brynner was allowed to re-create his role as the King and Deborah Kerr (although dubbed by the versatile Marni Nixon) was a fine substitute for the late Gertrude Lawrence as royal school-marm Anna Leonowens. In an unusual move, Jerome Robbins was allowed to re-create his original stage choreography (most notably in the "Small House of Uncle Thomas" ballet) and Jo Mielziner's opulent stage sets were topped by John DeCuir's sumptuously designed sound stages. Though well made, "Oklahoma!" didn't take root on film quite as well (especially in the Agnes de Mille ballet numbers, which looked so stage-bound on screen), and "Carousel" and especially the hugely popular "Sound of Music," though handsomely photographed on location, bogged down in sentiment. Sure, "The King and I" is a tad schmaltzy too, but fiery Brynner and feisty Kerr, ably directed by Walter Lang, bring tears that don't taste of treacle. Alfred Newman's Fox orchestra and chorus were in peak form too. It's too bad the songs cut from the film version couldn't have been restored here (mostly likely they were recorded and not unfilmed). But this remains one of the rock-solid screen adaptations of a beloved classic Broadway show. Happily, the color on the full CinemaScope 55 image DVD disc is excellent and the disc includes the Overture, Entr'acte and Exit Music that would have been heard in the original '50s first-run engagements. The sound isn't a crisp as the visuals, regrettably, but good considering the nature of magnetic recording in the mid 1950s. The other DVD bonuses include a grainy rendering of the 35mm theatrical trailer, quickie bios of the principal creators, some Fox newsreel highlights of the premiere and Oscar ceremonies (mostly blantant commercials for Fox performers and products) and three audio-only replays of tunes from the show billed as a "Sing Along" (Mitch Miller is nowhere in sight, thank goodness).