The Scarlet Pimpernel (1982) (TV)

Director:

Clive Donner

Writers:

William Bast (teleplay)
Baroness Emmuska Orczy (novels)

Release Date:

9 November 1982 (USA)

Genre:

Romance | Drama | Action

Plot:

During the French Revolution, a mysterious English nobleman known only as The Scarlet Pimpernel (a humble wayside flower)...

Plot Keywords:

French Revolution | Scarlet Pimpernel | Swashbuckler | Based On Novel | Character Name In Title

Awards:

Won Primetime Emmy. Another 2 nominations

Cast

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

Runtime:

142 min

Country:

UK

Language:

English

Colour:

Colour

Aspect Ratio:

1.33 : 1

Sound Mix:

Mono

Certification:

UK:PG | Australia:G (DVD rating) | Australia:PG (cable rating)

Filming Locations:

Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxfordshire, England, UK

Company:

Edgar J. Scherick Associates

Goofs:

Audio/visual unsynchronized: When Sir Percy's courier is shot, he can be heard screaming. But when his face is shown, his mouth is closed as the scream continues.

Quotes:

Sir Percy: [on his poem] Well, the pretty thing rhymes in four places, don't you see? And if a rhyme rhymes, it makes a poem, if you follow me.
Prince Regent: As if it were crystal clear... my dear!

Movie Connections:

Version of "The Scarlet Pimpernel" (1999)

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.