The Scarlet Pimpernel

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.

The Scarlet Pimpernel is one of my favorite movies. It may not be a big-budget blockbuster, but it certainly is intriguing. Hats off to Baroness Orczy for such an amazingly twisted tale, and again to the cast who pulled it off so well. It has that delicately beautiful balance of romance, hidden behind a latticework of deception, intrigue, bravado and hope. A fan of historical fiction, action and romance, I found it to be quite a fascinating little nugget of gold amongst a vast array of shoddy Made-for-TV movies. Anthony Andrews is very good in the role of Sir Percy Blakeney, who- in nearly the very beginning of the movie- utters some of the most romantic lines I've ever heard, as well as some of the most humorous (my personal favorite is: "T'would seem your friend is in distress... to the rescue."). Sitting alone in the house some night in the future, this would be a good flick to put in. Guys, don't expect a lot of explosions (yes, it made me weep to not see them also), but it is still a good one. Besides, there are still some good old fashioned action/chase sequences...

I have loved this movie since I was a child, but even more so now having re-watched it after reading the two books it is based upon. Anthony Andrews perfectly captures the dual nature of Sir Percy - the lazy eyelids, drawly voice, and then the flashes of passion when alone with Marguerite. His appearance is always impeccable, and his disguises are always extremely good but still true to what he would have been able to accomplish at that time.

The script manages to flawlessly interweave the plot of "The Scarlet Pimpernel" and "Eldorado", the two Orczy books on which it is based (both revolving around the Scarlet Pimpernel). The resulting story allows for wonderful character development, especially between the three main characters. Ian McKellan wonderfully captures Chauvelin's zeal and nervousness, with the added bonus of seeing more of his background with Marguerite and Sir Percy.

I have never seen any of the other version of The Scarlet Pimpernel, but as this one is so good I feel I do not need to even bother. Even without knowing the story or reading the two books, it stands on its own merit as a wonderfully entertaining film, which might just as easily have been made for the big screen as for TV.

I absolutely loved this movie! The first time I saw it I was totally on the edge of my seat. It's not a movie where you can predict what happens next. Anthony Andrews, Jane Seymour, and Ian McKlellan are wonderful! I would recommend The Scarlet Pimpernel to anyone and everyone. It has suspense, romance, adventure, it's absolutely incredible! I could watch it everyday and never get sick of it!

This is my favorite movie of all-time. The film is set during the French Revolution and makes the horror of the guillotine, along with the triumph of the secret band of the Scarlet Pimpernel very believable. The key strength I feel the film has is an excellent storyline and developing plot. The viewer is always kept on edge wondering what will happen next in the adventure. There are beautiful yet modest romance scenes. The orchestral score fits the mood of each scene perfectly. The acting is excellent, especially on the part of the three leading actors, Anthony Andrews, Jane Seymor, and Ian McKellen.

The movie also has excellent replay value--it seems almost every time you watch it you pick up on something new about the plot.

I highly recommend this movie to anyone who appreciates a full plot, a great story, and interesting twists that prove in the end good triumphs over evil.