The Prisoner of Zenda

Adapted from Anthony Hope's novel, this 1937 film sets out the classic adventure formula in its cleanest form. In a small European kingdom the heir preparing for his coronation is marked for assassination, and an Englishman who happens to be his double takes his place at the ceremony. When the real king is abducted, the stand-in has to keep playing the part, and falls in love with the king's intended, Princess Flavia. The film's strength lies as much in the moral trap as in the swordplay: if the man stays, the throne and the woman are his, but the price is another man's life. Ronald Colman plays both roles, and Douglas Fairbanks Jr.'s villain is one of the most remembered supporting turns in the genre. Of the many versions of this story, it is generally held to be the best. Who it's for: viewers who love classic Hollywood adventure and costume pictures. Who it's not for: anyone wanting realistic political intrigue and complicated characters.