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Poster for The Prisoner of Zenda

The Prisoner of Zenda

Seen it?

1979 | 108 min | Action, Adventure, Comedy

Sunday Safe Betearly rating

Why it’s a Sunday Safe Bet

It was critically acclaimed, though it had little lasting buzz. A safe bet when you want something reliable.

Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.

Is it for you?

Who'll love it
Made for anyone who wants a laugh and action fans.
The mood
Light and funny.
The pace
Fast-moving, at 1 hr 48 min.
What might put you off
Made in 1979: an older pace and style.

Anthony Hope's classic tale gets a decidedly 'un-classic' treatment at the hands of Peter Sellers. Following the story somewhat, friends of the new King Rudolph of Ruritania fear for his life, and switch him with a look-a-like London cabby. Throw in two(!) lovely blondes, treachery, and a battle for life and honour, and enjoy life at its zaniest.

How it earned its rating

  • CriticsStrong

    Critically acclaimed

  • AudiencesNot counted

    Not measured yet: not enough ratings

  • AwardsNot counted

    No major awards or nominations

  • Box office & staying powerSolid

    $15 million worldwide on a $10 million budget; still draws a steady audience long after release

  • Buzz & cultural impactBelow par

    About 14K people sought it out in the past year

Trailer

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Cast & crew

Directed by Richard Quine

  • Peter SellersRudolf IV/Rudolf V/Sidney Frewin
  • Stuart WilsonRupert
  • Lynne FrederickPrincess Flavia
  • Elke SommerCountess Montparnasse
  • Gregory SierraCount Montparnasse
  • Catherine SchellMauban
  • Jeremy KempDuke Michael
  • John LaurieArchbishop
  • Ian AbercrombieJohann
  • Simon Williams