Anna and the King

viewed December 26, 1999 at the Kabuki 8

For full information about this film, click here

It is possible, though not likely, that the relationship between a colonialist schoolmarm and an Asian king could have some relevance to modern issues of gender and culture, but this rendition of the well-worn tale is well-meaning but outdated.  Andy Tennant whose done notable work in contemporizing outdated material (Ever After), doesn't pull it off this time.  The film is bewilderingly short on insights on culture and gender, just a lot of people puffing up their chests and acting indignant in typical nationalist manner.  instead it settles for the lowbrow route to mainstreaming the story with an uninspired action climax.  interesting scene where the king must uphold the power of his law by executing his adulterous lover... seems to support chinese government.  jodie foster is frigid and standoffish as Anna; she seems less drawn to the king than to the need to pester him constantly.  Chow Yun Fat gives the warmer, more generous performance, though surprisingly he doesn't carry the weighty presence of a king.

Home