A memorable epic adventure

Rating: 8/10 (24 June 2008)

"The Man Who Would be King" is based on Rudyard Kipling's famous short story of the same name. It centres on a pair of scoundrels who, fresh from military service in India, hatch a plan to trek to Kafiristan and lead the locals in combat, eventually gaining the throne through their heroics (or so the plan goes).
The two stars of the film, Michael Caine and Sean Connery, were well chosen and deliver a pair of fine performances. Among the supporting cast I thought that Saeed Jaffrey (as Billy Fish) was easily the best of the lot.
From a technical standpoint the film is also well done. The Middle Eastern setting and presence of a Maurice Jarre score beg comparison with "Lawrence of Arabia", which is a tough yardstick for any film. Huston's direction is impressive but not as breathtaking as Lean's while Jarre's score isn't nearly as memorable as his earlier work. On the whole, though, this film is an excellently crafted epic (although perhaps a trifle short for the 'epic' moniker).
In conclusion, if you enjoy epic films then this one is a must-see. It seems to be mostly overlooked these days but I'd say that's only because it arrived after the golden age of epic movie-making.