Comedy,Drama,Romance
United Kingdom,United States of America
The Prince and the Showgirl is a 1957 romantic comedy film directed by Laurence Olivier and starring Marilyn Monroe and Olivier himself. The film is set in London in 1911 during the coronation of King George V.
Marilyn Monroe plays the saucy American showgirl named Elsie Marina who is performing in a London theater. She catches the eye of the roving-eyed Duke of St. James, played by Olivier, who invites her to dinner at the French embassy.
During their late supper, the Duke tries to seduce Elsie but she resists his charms. The Duke's estranged son, the young King Nicholas VIII, played by Richard Wattis, then interrupts their dinner with politics and angry accusations.
The King is worried about his country and fears there may be a revolution. He accuses his father of being out of touch with the people and demands that he abdicates the throne. The Duke is shocked and upset by his son's accusations and tries to defend himself.
Elsie tries to defuse the situation with her charm and wit, but the King remains resolute in his demands. Eventually, both the Duke and Elsie return to the theater where Elsie performs her show, and the Duke watches from the audience with a newfound respect and admiration for her.
The Prince and the Showgirl is a charming film that showcases Monroe's comedic talents and Olivier's acting and directing skills. It is a delightful romance that combines humor, politics, and royalty set against a backdrop of 1911 London.
