The Court Jester(Melvin Frank and Norma Panana, 1955): USA

Reviewed by Gabriella Baez. Reviwed at the AFI Film Festival, Los Angeles.

“The Court Jester,” directed by Melvin Frank and Norma Panana, is a prime example of a brave action packed comedy. The film played at the AFI Film Festival where respected director Agnès Varda selected this film as one of her inspirations. Often older films are brushed off as bad because they are being judged upon special effects and compared with newer generation films that have the advantage of update technology. This film however, doesn’t rely on special effects to carry its momentum, but rather has a great comedic stand point and great acting. The setting of the film takes place in a grand medieval English associated palace that is under the complete control of the King. Although it appears to be that all abide by the royal crown, there are whisper so over throw and possible assassination of the King.

The film mocks the presence of a ruling monarchy system while continues to highlight the point through collaborated humor. The adventures that take place to over throw the King are motivated by the questioning of the true heir to the throne. While many of the peasants believe the royal heir to the throne had perished with his family, a secret society of rebels has formed with in the woods beyond the outskirts of the city. Within the clan the members are not only trying to over throw the crown but are also protecting the true heir; an infant baby noted for his hilarious birthmark.

The main protagonist Hubert Hawkins played by the famous Danny Kaye, is notable for his song and dance, as well as his talent as a comedian. In turn Kaye is more than qualified for the role as the Court Jester, who is a personal entertainer at the will of the King. Similar to his role in “White Christmas,” Kaye steels the show with his great vocal and dance routines. The film strikes similarities from classic tales such as Robin Hood and Dartagnan’s daughter. Easily, the most noticeable element of film is the acting due to the strong actors such as Glynis Johns, Angela Lansbury, and Cecil Parker. Each actor is in complete character and makes the audience invest in their endeavors.

I would certainly recommend this film to people of all ages for the strong acting, entertainment value, and the narrative. The screenplay or blueprint of the film is well constructed so that the connection of the characters is amusing because of the situational irony. This film is light hearted, funny, and leaves the audience feeling happy. The lovely musical numbers come naturally throughout the film and add to its overall charm. While the film isn’t largely bloated with special effects, it holds its own purely on the principles of acting and good humor.