The Prince And The Pauper Parent Guide
Parent Movie Review
Begging for coins while three women (presumably witches) are publicly burned at the stake, twelve-year-old Thomas Canty (Robert Timmins) sees his father stab a man and then frame another for the murder. Being the only witness to the crime, the young pauper knows his own life is in jeopardy.
While attempting to flee from his violent parent, a chain of serendipitous events delivers the frightened fugitive within the castle walls and into the protection of none other than Prince Edward (Jonathan Timmins). Seeing a similarity in their appearance, the royal youth decides to take advantage of the situation to get his heart’s desire: an enjoyable afternoon frolicking with other children.
Under the assumption all will be child’s play, the boys naively step into each other’s world by switching clothes and identities. But this small act will change their lives forever, and force them to grow up.
Denied re-admittance to the palace, Prince Edward gets a slice of real life when an accidental encounter with Thomas’s father turns into a tavern fight involving daggers and swords. The lad is rescued and taken under wing by Miles Hendon (Aidan Quinn), a kindly stranger. During the pair’s flight from the dangers of London, the heir to the throne is privy to his benefactor’s looming identity crisis, as well as seeing the harshness of his father’s kingdom first hand.
Meanwhile, back at the castle… Thomas may have traded his mud for food and finery, yet he’s ill prepared for regal life or the trials of deception and betrayal that soon come his way.
In Hallmark’s adaptation of Mark Twain’s classic tale, The Prince And The Pauper, poverty, greed, abuse, neglect, and public execution are depicted to establish the bleak circumstances of England in the 1500’s. They also spark the characters’ determination for justice, and search for truth (even if it is sometimes laced with disappointment). Although these elements are not gratuitously portrayed, they may make the film unsuitable for youngsters. However, the themes of love, loyalty, and forgiveness may provide older children and teens with a chance to do a little growing of their own.
Starring Robert Timmins, Jonathan Timmins, Aidan Quinn.. Updated July 17, 2017
The Prince And The Pauper
Rating & Content Info
Why is The Prince And The Pauper rated Not Rated? The Prince And The Pauper is rated Not Rated by the MPAA
Overall: B-
Two young boys, a prince and a pauper, trade places in hopes of taking a break from their miserable lives. Each is in for far more than he bargained for when circumstances prevent them from resuming their rightful identities. With some violent content concerns this classic Mark Twain tale would be best for families with older children.
Violence: C
Children engage in toy sword fighting. Character stabbed, blood shown. Character slaps another on back of head. On two occasions women are burned at the stake: the first time three characters are briefly seen while the fire takes light; while in the second, burning is implied but not shown. Man strikes woman’s face with his hand. Woman slaps boy’s hand. Character bumps into barmaid causing her to fall and drop serving tray. Characters, including a child, are involved in sword and dagger fight: property damage and injuries result. Falling sack of flour knocks character unconscious. Bedridden character passes away in presence of child. Characters roughly thrown into jail cell. Character slaps child. Group of boys attack and beat a character.
Sexual Content: A
Man slaps woman’s bottom.
Language: A-
At least: one mild profanity, and one term of Deity used as an expletive.
Alcohol / Drug Use: B-
Characters drink ale or wine at meals, and in a rundown tavern. Leeches used for medicinal purposes.
Page last updated July 17, 2017
The Prince And The Pauper Parents' Guide
Has the prospect of living someone else’s life ever seemed inviting to you? Who would you be willing to trade identities with? Would you have any concerns about what they might do while pretending to be you?
Many atrocities and injustices are portrayed in this film. How do the characters respond to these challenges? What could Tom have done with his newfound power and wealth? What would have happened if Myles had not shown kindness? How did Prince Edward’s experience change his understanding of the role of a ruler? What did you learn from their example of worthy character traits?
Home Video
Related home video titles:
Another movie that features kids trading places is The Parent Trap. For other Mark Twain stories adapted to film see Tom And Huck, and The Adventures Of Huck Finn.
