03.12.02
The
Lost Prince
Released
on VHS and DVD - 20 January 2003
Starring
a world-class cast including Miranda Richardson, Michael Gambon,
Gina McKee and Tom Hollander, The Lost Prince is the true but thus
far untold story of Prince Johnnie, the younger son of Queen Mary
and King George V who was hidden away to spare an uncomprehending
family and public from his severe epileptic fits and autism.
Another
cinematographic masterpiece from writer and director Stephen Poliakoff,
The Lost Prince is a moving drama set against the looming First
World War, featuring stunning costumes, idyllic sets, and the beguiling
atmosphere of immensely significant world events seen simply through
a child's eyes.
"He
became a forgotten child," says director Poliakoff, "we
experience events through him, events on an epic scale. It is history
seen through a half-open door through the First World War.
Stunning
highlights include state events and family gatherings: from Edward
VII's funeral and the visitation of the nine Kings of Europe in
1910 to the visit to the Isle of Wight by Tsar Nicholas II and his
family.
The
first half sets the scene showing instances of family life and indications
that Johnnie's behaviour becoming odder and odder. Poliakoff skilfully
and subtly contrasts Domestic intimacy with the political build-up
to the First World War. In the second half we see the Royal family
stricken by world events and struggling to adapt with genuine feeling
and humility. Johnnie's health is ailing and there is news of the
terrible loss of life.
Characterisation
is minutely observed. Every character's psychological make up is
explored and woven into the action with fascinating insights into
their foibles and eccentricities.
Miranda
Richardson plays Queen Mary, who tries to understand the needs of
her youngest child; Gina McKee is Prince John's devoted nanny, Lalla;
Tom Hollander stars as George V. Michael Gambon is Prince John's
grandfather, Edward VII, with veteran Bergman film actress, Bibi
Andersson, as his wife, Queen Alexandra. John Sessions plays the
young royals' tutor, Mr Hansell. Bill Nighy plays Stamfordham, King
George's socially and politically adept Private Secretary.
Bonus
extras on the DVD include a photo gallery of the spectacular stills
taken on set, and an informative commentary by Stephen Poliakoff,
composer Adrian Johnnston and JP Kelly, the production designer.
There is also an exclusive interview with Poliakoff.
Title:
The Lost Prince
Price: VHS 拢12.99DVD 拢15.99
Catalogue no: 大象传媒V7373 大象传媒DVD1203
Running time: tbc
Release date: 20 January 2003
Certificate: tbc
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