Is If I Were King Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, If I Were King is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Adventure movies.
It features a runtime of 101 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
If I Were King Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1938, If I Were King emerges as a significant entry in the Adventure, History domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of King Louis XI masquerades as a commoner in Paris, seeking out the treachery he is sure lurks in his kingdom. Unlike standard genre fare, If I Were King attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Adventure is often anchored by its ensemble, and If I Were King features a noteworthy lineup led by Ronald Colman . Supported by the likes of Basil Rathbone and Frances Dee , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of If I Were King (1938) is mixed. With an audience rating of 6.8/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
If I Were King Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: If I Were King is a Adventure, History film that presents a compelling narrative that engages viewers from start to finish. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
If I Were King Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: If I Were King concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to adventure resolution.
The conclusion addresses the core thematic questions, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the adventure themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of If I Were King reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
If I Were King Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
If I Were King draws heavily from documented historical records. As a adventure, history film, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement.
Historical Context
The film takes creative liberties to enhance dramatic impact. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
Creative interpretation shapes the final narrative, with attention to period detail and historical context.
Accuracy Assessment: If I Were King adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch If I Were King?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Adventure films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of the cast or director
- Want solid genre entertainment
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Full Cast & Crew of If I Were King
- Ronald Colman – François Villon
- Basil Rathbone – Louis XI
- Frances Dee – Katherine de Vaucelles
- Ellen Drew – Huguette
- C. V. France – Father Villon
Top Highlights
Ronald ColmanFrançois Villon
Basil RathboneLouis XI
Frances DeeKatherine de Vaucelles
Ellen DrewHuguette
C. V. FranceFather Villon
Henry WilcoxonCaptain of the Watch
Heather ThatcherThe Queen
Stanley RidgesRene de Montigny
Bruce LesterNoel de Jolys
Alma LloydColette
Parents Guide & Age Rating
If I Were King is rated NR.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.8/10, and global collection metrics, If I Were King stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1938 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is If I Were King movie hit or flop?
If I Were King has received mixed reviews with a 6.8/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is If I Were King worth watching?
If I Were King is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Adventure, History movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch If I Were King online?
If I Were King may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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Critic Reviews for If I Were King
This is a cracking bit of swashbuckling adventure with Ronald Colman ("Villon") and particularly Basil Rathbone (Louis XI) on top form. The former is a poetic vagabond, Robin Hood style, character who pinches what he can to help feed the population of a besieged Paris, whilst their King sits in his palace living the life of Riley. When the King's personal store is raided, the King's guard step up their searches and it isn't long before "Villon" is apprehended. The King is a wily old buzzard, though, and realising potential in this man of the people, appoints him to command the city and his armies and before long the people begin to change their previously hostile views of Louis XI and everyone focuses on the looming Burgundian attacks. Coleman reminded me of Errol Flynn here; he displays a charming intimacy with both his colleagues and the audience that is engaging. Rathbone - who lost out on the Oscar to Walter Brennan for "Kentucky" (1938) - is also excellent as the shrewd monarch who must hold his kingdom together, despite some pretty obvious character flaws! Frank Lloyd keeps the whole thing moving along swiftly, with plenty of action, pithy dialogue and duplicity writ large. If you like the genre, then you ought to love this - I really enjoyed it.
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This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
Useful Links
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