This Hallmark production is -like others from the same source -a television movie based on an established minor classic and is a workmanlike rather than startlingly good movie . The youthful Prince of Wales Edward swaps places with Tom a young Londoner from the slums ,the two being virtually identical .The escapade is meant to be temporary but the Prince is thwarted in his attempts to resume his rightful place leaving the reluctant imposter to cope with the villainous Regent who has tumbled to the situation .The Prince meanwhile is under the protection of Miles , newly returned from Spain and trying to regain his lands from his usurper brother .It proves an education for the young prince as the injustices of his father King Henry the Eighth are brought fully home to him . Strong performance from the late Alan Bates as the King and the villain is capably played by the suitably unctuous Jonathan Hyde .Aidan Quinn is excellent as Sir Miles and the Timmins twins do well in the title roles
Not as good as the big screen version from some years back but a pleasing diversion
Not as good as the big screen version from some years back but a pleasing diversion