Crown Matrimonial

I was fortunate enough to see this on stage and also on TV. I would dearly love a copy of this if there are any out there. It features so many favourite actors, Dame Wendy is as always divine. Peter Barkworth brings life and personality to King Edward while so many failed to do, creating mere caricatures.

DVD release long overdue!

I was quite taken with the performance by Greer Garson and ensemble in this Hallmark Hall of Fame historical drama about the behind-the- scenes goings-on during the weeks in 1936 when Edward VIII proclaimed his love for Wallis Simpson. It takes place during the weeks following the death of his father, King George V. Garson was 70 years old portraying Queen Mary at almost precisely the same age. She is in every scene. It's a great performance - NOT available (yet) on DVD - but if you can see it (at the Paley Center in either NYC or LA) - you will not be disappointed. The supporting cast of Peter Barkworth as the 'reluctant' King Edward VIII, Andrew Ray as 'Bertie' the Duke of York and Amanda Reiss as the Duchess of York (we later know her as the Queen Mum) are terrific! But it is Greer Garson who carries the entire play. Beyond her Academy Award-nominated performances at the height of her career ('39-'45), this is the finest performance of the second part of her acting career.

I have all of Greer Garson's mo installed, and I have been trying to find this one on DVD. It says it is available but I can't seem to find where to view this at.

I saw the original play several times, in the West End, and a friend had a small part. I have always admired Peter Barkworth. Dame Wendy Hiller was memorable as Queen Mary. Odd to see her listed in the cast list here, as well as Greer Garson. Miss Garson bought the film rights, in order to play Queen Mary, which she does very well - but it will always be Dame Wendy's part.

The play, as a whole, transferred well to the small screen and I hope to see it again, one day. Alas, the abdication speech, which was played with just a pin-spot, shining on the Royal Crest, above the proscenium arch, will always remain a spellbinding memory, with people in the audience who clearly remembered the Abdication weeping.