King and I, The MPAA Rating: G Entertainment: +2 1/2 Content: +3

Years ago, Rodgers and Hammerstein created one of their most popular Broadway musicals of all time based on the book, ANNA AND THE KING OF SIAM. Now Warner Brothers brings us a colorful animated adaptation of the musical. Anna (voice of Miranda Richardson/sung by Christiane Noll), a widowed English school teacher, arrives in exotic Siam with her young son to tutor the King of Siams (voice of Martin Vidnovic) many children. Although the story takes place in the mid 1800s, Anna is an opiniated, very independent young lady, and the kind but egotistical king is puzzled by such a woman. Meanwhile, the kings sinister prime minister (Ian Richardson) is plotting to gain control of Siam. Anna quickly wins over her young charges, and soon earns the kings admiration and respect. Colorful scenes in and around the palace, plus songs like Getting to Know You, Shall We Dance and Hello Young Lovers and the adorable children will enchant youngsters. Some action scenes and the comical antics of the animals and the villains sidekick help move the story along. Overall, however, THE KING AND I may not be sophisticated and modern enough to compete aggressively with recent high-tech animated films.But this charming animated musical classic will appeal to many.

The films opening scene might frighten very young children. The ship bringing Anna and her son to Siam nearly sinks in a fierce storm with a dragon-like monster erupting from the sea. Annas son falls overboard trying to save the captains pet monkey, but is miraculously saved. A harrowing chase through the jungle includes a giant spider, a vicious sounding tiger and a near drowning in a raging river. The king makes a heroic rescue from a hot air balloon that catches on fire. Anna refuses to bow to a Buddha statue even though the king orders her to do so while he prays for guidance. She chastises him for breaking his promise to furnish her a house outside the palace ground and persuades him to provide better living conditions for the many poor people in Siam. THE KING AND I has no offensive material, but the portrayal of a culture that worships an idol instead of God is of some concern. However, Buddism is not promoted or portrayed favorably.

Preview Reviewer: Mary Draughon
Distributor: Warner Bros., 4000 Warner Blvd., Burbank, CA 91522