Cast
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Bing Crosby
as Hank Martin
Rhonda Fleming
as Alisande La Carteloise
Cedric Hardwicke
as King Arthur
William Bendix
as Sir Sagramore
Murvyn Vye
as Merlin
Virginia Field
as Morgan Le Fay
Joseph Vitale
as Sir Logris
Henry Wilcoxon
as Sir Lancelot
Richard Webb
as Sir Galahad
Alan Napier
as High Executioner
Julia Faye
as Lady Penelope
Mary Field
as Peasant woman
Ann Carter
as Peasant girl
John George
as Peasant (uncredited)
Lucille Barkley
as Page Girl (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- Tay Garnett
Writer
- Edmund Beloin
- Mark Twain
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Fantasy/Music cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on interpersonal relationships and emotional connections. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Tay Garnett brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1949, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court took approximately 18 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 106 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 153 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
- The film contains approximately 2200 individual shots.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1949, when this film was released:
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Maestro, which focuses more on action than character development, A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Goosebumps: Stay Out of the Basement and Yuuki Yuuna is a Hero: Washio Sumi's Chapter 1 - Friends explore similar territory, A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: April 18, 1949
- Runtime: 1h 46m
