Question 1

What tragic event occurred shortly after production involving actor Nigel Green?

Accepted Answer

Nigel Green died shortly after production from an overdose of sleeping pills; it was ruled an accident but some believe it was suicide due to his depression during filming. His dialog was replaced by Graham Crowden.

Question 2

How did Alastair Sim come to play the Bishop in the film?

Accepted Answer

Alastair Sim cast himself as the Bishop by calling his friend Peter O'Toole and offering to take the part, which no one would turn down from such a great character actor.

Question 3

What is the possible real-world inspiration behind the Gurney family name?

Accepted Answer

Writer Peter Barnes went to school near Bristol, where a mental hospital in Barrow Gurney has long been associated with mental illness in local patois, making the Gurney family name more than coincidence.

Question 4

Which dangerous stunts did Peter O'Toole perform himself in the film?

Accepted Answer

Peter O'Toole performed Jack jumping off the cross himself and rode the horse to the hunt himself on his retired racehorse Eric the Red, fulfilling a dream to gallop a thoroughbred.

Question 5

What is the central conflict in 'The Ruling Class'?

Accepted Answer

When the Earl dies, his schizophrenic son Jack inherits the estate but believes he's Jesus. The Gurney family plots to steal his inheritance and cure his bizarre behavior, with disastrous results.

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The Ruling Class

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