Here in the Prime Screening Room, I highlight Amazon Prime Instant Videos that are not only free for Prime members to watch, but definitely worth the cost of the rental for everyone else as well.
Today’s pick is the terrific historical adventure The Man in the Iron Mask (PG-13, 4/5 stars, currently FREE for Prime members to view, for non-Prime members currently priced at $2.99 to rent and $9.99 to buy).
You couldn’t ask for a more star-studded cast than you’ll find in this movie adaptation of the Alexandre Dumas novel. Leonardo DiCaprio plays the evil French king Louis as well as his wrongly imprisoned twin brother Philippe. The dashing Three Musketeers are portrayed by Gerard Depardieu (Porthos), John Malkovich (Athos) and Jeremy Irons (Aramis). Gabriel Byrne portrays Captain of the Guard D’Artagnan, and if you watch carefully you can even spot Hugh Laurie (House) and Peter Sarsgaard (An Education) in small supporting roles.
From IMDB:
Paris is starving, but the King of France is more interested in money and bedding women. When a young soldier dies for the sake of a shag, Aramis, Athos and Porthos band together with a plan to replace the king. Unknown to many, there is a 2nd king, a twin, hidden at birth, then imprisoned for 6 years behind an iron mask. All that remains now is D’Artagnan: will he stand against his long time friends, or do what is best for his country?
There’s plenty of swashbuckling action, heartfelt drama, comedy, and even a little romance in this sumptuous film. The performances are stellar across the board, with Irons’ portrayal of the faithful Aramis and Byrne’s performance as the conflicted D’Artagnan being the particular standouts. DiCaprio is equally believable as the grasping, sociopathic Louis and his frightened, kindhearted, naive twin, Phillipe.
You won’t find lots of special effects here, but it’s a stirring film, nonetheless.
Fans of the Pirates of the Caribbean movies, Lord of the Rings movies or Game of Thrones, as well as anyone who loves a rousing, period adventure are sure to enjoy The Man in the Iron Mask.
It’s also a great way to introduce tweens and teens to some classic literature. Who knows: maybe after viewing this film, the kids will want to pick up Dumas’ classic novels. This Kindle book (currently priced at $1.99) includes The Three Musketeers and The Man in the Iron Mask.