The Slipper and the Rose

12/25/2022

Bryan Forbes has managed to assemble the combined talents of the "Mary Poppins" writing Sherman brothers and a fine cast of British stage giants for this gentle retelling of the "Cinderella" tale. Now, I will admit - I am not a fan of Richard Chamberlain. I may never forgive him for totally destroying my images of Alan Quatermain and Edmond Dantes in years to come, but for the most part here - he is OK. He is the poor old prince "Edward" constantly harangued by his father (Sir Michael Hordern) and his chancellor (Kenneth More) to marry. Even his scene-stealing grandmother (Dame Edith Evans) is in on that scheme too. A glittering ball is the answer, and all the eligible ladies from far and wide will be invited. Meantime, poor old "Cinders" (Gemma Craven) has fallen foul of her wicked stepmo