All the King's Horses (1935)

All the King's Horses Poster

A Hollywood actor visits a mythical country where he looks like the king and confuses the queen.

Introduction
"All the King's Horses" is a 1935 movie directed by Frank Tuttle. The comedy-drama movie is based upon a musical made up by Ann Ronell, with the script penned by James Gow and Edmund Houser. It is a Paramount picture-based film showcased as a romantic comedy with aspects of political intrigue and identity shift. The film stars Carl Brisson in the role of Rudolph Ritter, an actor from the performers. The other primary characters include Eddie, his valet, played by Edward Everett Horton, and Colonel Strum, portrayed by Ernest Cossart.

Plot Summary
An American star, Rudolph Ritter, and his valet, Eddie, are traveling with their theatrical performers, carrying out in the small, debt-ridden European country of Belgardia. When King Anatol XII of Belgardia, who occurs to be a spitting image of Rudolph, is eliminated in a motor mishap, the kingdom's Prime Minister and Colonel Strum choose to keep it a trick to prevent political instability.

In the interest of maintaining order, they convince Rudolph to function as the King, guaranteeing him that he only has to serve till after the approaching yearly parade. Rudolph, while initially reluctant, agrees to the proposal after they assure him a grand amount of money. He starts to live the king's life secretly, navigating through palace intrigues, assassination attempts and dealing with worldwide diplomacy.

Romantic Interlude and Political Trouble
Amid the political chaos, a romantic subplot unfolds as Rudolph falls for the lovely Princess Helene, played by Mary Ellis, who was engaged to King Anatol XII before his death. Helene, unaware of Rudolph's true identity, reciprocates his affection, and they both start to fall in love. Meanwhile, debt-ridden Belgardia is being pressed by surrounding nations to pay their financial obligations. The monetary chaos leads to a possible revolution.

Climax and Resolution
Regardless of the looming political stress and the ticking clock of his fake kingship, Rudolph handles to maintain the façade. As he continues his role as the king, he convinces Princess Helene to delay their wedding up until after the parade. Following the effective parade, Rudolph, proud of his accomplishment, reveals his true identity to her. Aghast, and feeling betrayed, Helene initially declines him.

On the other hand, Eddie, with some help from the valet and others of the theatrical troupe, satisfies a subplot's climax by obtaining and providing evidence of fraud committed by the Prime Minister.

Conclusion
The film ends on a happy note as the Prime Minister is jailed, the impending revolution in Belgardia is prevented, and the kingdom's financial obligations are paid with the Prime Minister's ill-acquired wealth. Helene forgives Rudolph, having recognized his love for her was sincere, and they get married, leaving the nation in a serene and stable condition.

General Film Reception
"All the King's Horses" was typically well received for its funny and unique plot. It was praised for its amusing script and the efficiencies of Carl Brisson and Edward Everett Horton. The film effectively combined humour, love, and political intrigue, making it an enjoyable expect the audiences of the time.

Top Cast

  • Carl Brisson (small)
    Carl Brisson
    King Rudolf XIV / Carlo Rocco
  • Mary Ellis (small)
    Mary Ellis
    Elaine, the Queen of Langenstein
  • Edward Everett Horton (small)
    Edward Everett Horton
    Count Josef 'Peppi' von Schlapstaat
  • Katherine DeMille (small)
    Katherine DeMille
    Fraülein Mimi
  • Eugene Pallette (small)
    Eugene Pallette
    Conrad Q. Conley
  • Arnold Korff (small)
    Arnold Korff
    Baron Kraemer, Lord Chamberlain
  • Marina Koshetz (small)
    Marina Koshetz
    Steffi
  • Rosita (small)
    Rosita
    Ilonka
  • Stanley Andrews (small)
    Stanley Andrews
    Count Batthy
  • Jane Wyman (small)
    Jane Wyman
    Chorine on Train (uncredited)
  • Edwin Maxwell (small)
    Edwin Maxwell
    First Gentleman