The Prince and the Pauper

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

2 famous actors (Aidan Quinn and Jonathan Hyde)come together and give an outstanding performance.The movie was very good.It was based on the book "The Prince and the Pauper" by Mark Twain. 8 out of 10.

I read original story of Mark Twain and can say this movie is an excellent filming of it. Oh, it doesn't follow original exactly. There are plenty of deviations. But the soul of the story is kept brilliantly! I was really excited to watch it, enjoying every scene, every dialogue and every gesture of the heroes! All actors play admirable. 100% hit! I would like this movie to be at least twice longer! In original story remained several dramatic scenes, which would adorn adventure movie. But even in this edition this movie will stay forever in my "golden list" of favorite movies!

I must admit, I have not read the novel. I would like to, I like Mark Twain. Thus, I cannot comment on how much justice this adaptation does to his written original. What I can say is that I did not expect this to be as good as it turned out when I saw it in the television listings, but it really got my attention, and I never grew tired of it. The story is good, well-told and at the same time manages notable focus and many well-done sub-plots. The themes explored are interesting, and in addition to history and perspective, they can be applied to today's world. The costumes are immensely well-done. The music is great. The action is well-done, shot well and always fun and exciting. The acting is spot-on, throughout, including the children. Hyde is astonishing. The humor does have some juvenile material, however, the vast majority of it is safe for kids, yet not insulting to adults. This can be watched by anyone, of any age, and one could, if so inclined, sit down with their family and enjoy it together. I recommend this to any fan of the tale, the author of the book that was the source of this, and/or anyone involved in making this film. 7/10

An excellent and worthy adaptation of the classic, "The Prince and the Pauper" is the retelling of Edward Tudor and young Thomas Canty, two amazing look-alikes caught up in imperial intrigue and scandal. In fleeing from his violent father, Tom stumbles into the palace courtyard, and is seen by young Prince Edward, who takes him in. Each desiring to see what the other's life is like, the boys impulsively switch identities... little knowing what disaster lies ahead at this fault of thought. And soon Thomas becomes a pawn in the hands of Edward's malicious and greedy uncle, who would have the kingdom for himself.

The two lads in the lead do excellently well at their parts, and with a surrounding cast of well-known television and film personalities, the story shines with beautiful costuming and fine swordsmanship. Fit for parents and children alike, it's a masterful adaptation, and one to be proud of.