If I Were King (1938)

In this film based on a true story, King Louis XI (Basil Rathbone) masquerades as a commoner in Paris, seeking out the treachery he is sure lurks in his kingdom. At a local tavern, he overhears the brash poet François Villon (Ronald Colman) extolling why he would be a better king. Annoyed yet intrigued, the King bestows on Villon the title of Grand Constable. Soon Villon begins work and falls for a lovely lady-in-waiting (Frances Dee), but then must flee execution when the King turns on him.

Initial release: September 28, 1938
Director: Frank Lloyd
Screenplay: Preston Sturges
Adapted from: If I Were King
Distributed by: Paramount Pictures

If I Were King

DK Classics