The Lost Prince

Amazon.com A marvelous reinvention of the costume epic, The Lost Prince is Stephen Poliakoff's absorbing study of the turbulent years leading up to and during World War I, seen through the percipient eyes of a scarcely remembered royal child. Extensively researched, impeccably cast, beautifully filmed, written and directed by Poliakoff himself with masterly economy and restraint, this is a timely reminder that original, intelligent drama can work as prime-time entertainment while appealing on multiple levels; and there isn't an escaped soap star in sight. Johnnie, the prince kept hidden away by his parents Queen Mary and George V for fear that his epileptic fits and idiosyncratic ways might draw unwelcome attention, is not presented as a tragic figure. His view of the great events that shatter his family and change the world forever is direct and uncluttered. Poliakoff celebrates his apartness--and that of all children who are different--as a force for good, without judging the standards, protocols, and contemporary medical theories that kept him on the periphery of society. The series makes the most of its well-chosen locations, and from Johnnie's garden at Sandringham to the assassination of the Russian imperial family, it maintains a hypnotic and elegiac quality The acting is first-rate, too. Gina McKee is profoundly moving as Johnnie's devoted nurse Lalla, and Miranda Richardson's Mary is an extraordinary performance, the controlled facade of single-minded focus occasionally fracturing to reveal a flash of humanity. This production is exquisite in every respect. --Piers Ford Product Description Lost Prince, The (DVD) Young Prince John is loved for his frankness by his grandfather, the ailing King Edward II. But this strange and opinionated little boy suffers from epilepsy, and mysterious learning disabilities prevent him from participating in public life. As the world edges towards World War I, his mother and his newly crowned father are increasingly distant, embroiled in world affairs, while the medical profession declares Johnnie an imbecile and an embarrassment to the family. Only his devoted nurse, Lalla, sees the loving, funny, insightful child - the true prince - locked inside the stubborn shell. ]]>
ASIN: B00015HXDG
VSKU: DBV.B00015HXDG.G
Condition: Good
Binding: DVD
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Condition Notes: Individually inspected: Guaranteed to play perfectly or your money back. Case may show wear and may be in library packaging. Ships Fast!