Question 1

Which actor initially wanted the double role in The Prisoner of Zenda but ended up playing a different character?

Accepted Answer

Douglas Fairbanks Jr. initially wanted the double role and tested for it, but it went to Ronald Colman. He was offered the part of Rupert of Hentzau instead, which his father convinced him was the best role.

Question 2

What behind-the-scenes conflict did director John Cromwell have with his cast?

Accepted Answer

Director John Cromwell complained in memos that Douglas Fairbanks Jr. and David Niven were "overindulged and lazy," Ronald Colman "never knows his lines," and both Colman and Madeleine Carroll insisted on avoiding the same "bad side" of their faces.

Question 3

Why did producer David O. Selznick bring in additional directors after principal photography?

Accepted Answer

Producer David O. Selznick was unsatisfied with the action scenes, particularly the fencing, so he brought in directors W.S. Van Dyke and George Cukor to reshoot them after principal photography was finished.

Question 4

What unusual footage exists of Fay Wray's connection to The Prisoner of Zenda?

Accepted Answer

Fay Wray screen-tested for the role of Princess Flavia, and color footage of this test - apparently Douglas Fairbanks Jr.'s home movies - survives in the Motion Picture Academy's archive.

Question 5

What is the central identity-switch conflict in The Prisoner of Zenda?

Accepted Answer

A kingdom's ascending heir switches identities with a lookalike who takes his place at the coronation. When the real king is kidnapped, the stand-in falls in love with the king's intended bride, Princess Flavia, while followers try to rescue the king.

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The Prisoner of Zenda

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