The Man Who Would Be King (1975) Review in 2025
The Man Who Would Be King is a classic adventure film based on Rudyard Kipling's 1888 short story. The movie follows two British soldiers, Peachy Carnehan and Daniel Dravot, who embark on a journey to establish an empire in the Himalayas.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is not suitable for young children due to its mature themes, violence, and some strong language.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for fans of adventure films, and its themes of colonialism and power are timely and thought-provoking. It's a classic film that holds up well even today, and its memorable performances and stunning cinematography make it a standout in the genre.
Spoiler Alert!
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The movie revolves around the story of Peachy Carnehan and Daniel Dravot, two British soldiers who become obsessed with the idea of establishing an empire in the Himalayas. They recruit a group of local men and set out on a journey to conquer the region, but their plans are soon derailed by the harsh realities of the wilderness and the local population's resistance.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a clear narrative arc that keeps the viewer invested in the characters' journey. The film's themes of colonialism, power, and identity are timely and thought-provoking.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with Sean Connery and Michael Caine delivering standout performances. The supporting cast is also excellent, with notable performances from Shakira Caine and Saeed Jaffrey.
characters9.00/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with Sean Connery and Michael Caine delivering standout performances. The chemistry between the two leads is undeniable, and their banter and camaraderie are some of the film's most memorable moments.
direction9.00/10
John Huston's direction is masterful, with a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the material. The film's pacing is well-balanced, with a mix of action, comedy, and drama that keeps the viewer engaged.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is stunning, with breathtaking vistas of the Himalayas and a keen attention to detail in the film's production design. However, some of the special effects may seem dated by modern standards.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The Man Who Would Be King is a classic adventure film with a engaging story, well-developed characters, and masterful direction. The film's themes of colonialism and power are timely and thought-provoking, and its memorable performances and stunning cinematography make it a standout in the genre.
Cons
Some of the special effects may seem dated by modern standards, and the film's pacing can be a bit slow at times.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not a king, I'm a man who would be king."
"I'm the King of Kafiristan, and I'll have you know that I'm a very just and fair ruler."
"You can't have too much of a good thing, Peachy."
