The Court Jester

Norman Panama (1956)

97min

U Certificate

Review

Our Score

by Tom Hutchinson

This medieval spoof, produced, written and directed by the formidable team of Norman Panama and Melvin Frank, gave Danny Kaye one of his finest roles, as the meek and mild valet who saves a kingdom from its tyrannical ruler. It's worth watching for the classic "vessel-with-the-pestle" routine alone - one of the funniest devices Kaye ever employed. Basil Rathbone cuts an elegant figure of villainy, while Glynis Johns, Cecil Parker and Angela Lansbury get almost as many laughs as Kaye by playing it straight. It's as much horseplay as swordplay and, altogether, a witty delight.

Summary

A wicked nobleman appoints himself king of England, while the rightful heir to the throne is just a baby in the care of a notorious revolutionary. A bumbling follower of the rebel is persuaded to infiltrate the tyrant's castle disguised as a jester, but the plan is complicated when a princess falls in love with him. Medieval musical comedy, starring Danny Kaye, Glynis Johns and Basil Rathbone.

Cast & Crew

Hawkins Danny Kaye

Maid Jean Glynis Johns

Sir Ravenhurst Basil Rathbone

Princess Gwendolyn Angela Lansbury

King Roderick Cecil Parker

Griselda Mildred Natwick

Sir Griswold Robert Middleton

Sir Locksley Michael Pate

Captain of the guard Herbert Rudley

Fergus Noel Drayton

Black Fox Edward Ashley

Giacomo John Carradine

Sir Brockhurst Alan Napier

Director Norman Panama

Director Melvin Frank

Other Information

Language: EnglishColourTheatrical distributor: Paramount Film Service LtdAvailable on: video and DVD

Comedy Music

Full Episode Guide

Norman Panama (1956)

Review

Summary

Cast & Crew

Other Information

Latest News