The Scarlet Pimpernel (1982)
A dashing English nobleman leads a double life as a daring revolutionary-era rescuer in this beloved 1982 adventure romance.
The Scarlet Pimpernel - Movie Information
- Original Title: The Scarlet Pimpernel
- Release Year: 1982
- Directed by: Clive Donner
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Romance, TV Movie, Adventure
- Age Rating (US): PG
- Runtime: 2h 22m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Production Companies: Edgar J. Scherick Associates
- Production Countries: United Kingdom
The Scarlet Pimpernel - Plot
During the French Revolution, a mysterious English nobleman known only as The Scarlet Pimpernel (a humble wayside flower), snatches French aristos from the jaws of the guillotine, while posing as the foppish Sir Percy Blakeney in society. Percy falls for and marries the beautiful actress Marguerite St. Just, but she is involved with Chauvelin and Robespierre, and Percy's marriage to her may endanger the Pimpernel's plans to save the little Dauphin.
The Scarlet Pimpernel - Trailer
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The Scarlet Pimpernel - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Clive Donner
Main Cast
- Anthony Andrews
- Jane Seymour
- Ian McKellen
- James Villiers
- Eleanor David
- Malcolm Jamieson
- Denis Lill
- Ann Firbank
- Richard Morant
- Julian Fellowes
Producers
- David Conroy
The Scarlet Pimpernel - FAQs
Who plays The Scarlet Pimpernel in the 1982 film?
Anthony Andrews plays the dual role of Sir Percy Blakeney and his secret identity, The Scarlet Pimpernel. His portrayal brilliantly balances the bumbling aristocratic facade with the daring heroism underneath, and many fans still consider it the definitive screen version of the character.
Where can you stream The Scarlet Pimpernel (1982)?
You can watch The Scarlet Pimpernel on Acorn TV, Kanopy, Plex, and Fawesome for free or with a subscription. It's also available to buy or rent on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, and YouTube, so there are plenty of ways to enjoy it.
Is The Scarlet Pimpernel based on a true story?
The Scarlet Pimpernel is not based on a true story. It's adapted from Baroness Emmuska Orczy's 1905 novel of the same name. While the French Revolution backdrop is historically grounded, Sir Percy Blakeney and his secret heroics are entirely fictional — though the character inspired countless masked hero archetypes that followed.
What is The Scarlet Pimpernel (1982) about?
Set during the Reign of Terror, the film follows Sir Percy Blakeney, an English nobleman who secretly rescues French aristocrats from the guillotine as the elusive Scarlet Pimpernel. His cover as a frivolous dandy is threatened when he falls for actress Marguerite St. Just, whose ties to revolutionary agents put everything at risk.
How does Ian McKellen's Chauvelin compare to other portrayals?
Ian McKellen's Chauvelin is widely regarded as one of the finest screen portrayals of the villain. He brings a cold, calculating menace to the role, making the cat-and-mouse dynamic with Anthony Andrews genuinely thrilling. McKellen's performance elevates the film well beyond a typical period adventure.
What is the age rating for The Scarlet Pimpernel?
The Scarlet Pimpernel (1982) is rated PG, making it a great choice for family viewing. The film features swashbuckling adventure and period drama without heavy violence or adult content, so it's accessible to older children and teenagers who enjoy historical adventures.
How long is The Scarlet Pimpernel (1982)?
The Scarlet Pimpernel runs for 142 minutes, or about 2 hours and 22 minutes. It's a generous runtime that gives the story room to breathe, letting the romance between Percy and Marguerite develop alongside the high-stakes revolutionary intrigue.
What are some movies similar to The Scarlet Pimpernel?
If you loved The Scarlet Pimpernel, you might enjoy Dangerous Liaisons (1988) for its sharp period intrigue, Scaramouche (1952) for swashbuckling French Revolution adventure, Roman Holiday (1953) for romantic charm, and Beaumarchais the Scoundrel (1996) for witty 18th-century escapades.
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