The Court Jester (VHS, Sealed)

The Court Jester: Vintage VHS Musical Comedy

This vintage VHS tape of The Court Jester remains sealed in its original shrink-wrap, making it a collectible item. Melvin Frank and Norman Panama wrote, produced, and directed this 1955 American historical musical comedy film. Paramount Pictures distributed it. The film stars Danny Kaye, Glynis Johns, Basil Rathbone, Angela Lansbury, and Cecil Parker. It was released in Technicolor and VistaVision widescreen. We received this VHS tape donated new in its original shrink-wrap.

Plot: An Impersonated Jester

Former carnival performer Hubert Hawkins (Danny Kaye) and maid Jean (Glynis Johns) have an important mission: they must protect the infant royal heir from tyrannical King Roderick I (Cecil Parker). While Jean takes the baby to an abbey for safety, Hawkins gains access to the court by impersonating the king’s jester. He doesn’t know, however, that the jester is actually an assassin hired by scheming Sir Ravenhurst (Basil Rathbone). As events unfold, Princess Gwendolyn (Angela Lansbury) falls for Hawkins. Furthermore, a witch secretly aids him in becoming a knight.

A Beloved Classic

Although not financially successful at first, the film grew into a beloved classic over time. It consistently earns high scores on Rotten Tomatoes, which clearly indicates its lasting appeal to audiences.

Iconic Wordplay and Slapstick

The film features several memorable songs, all sung by Kaye. It heavily uses slapstick comedy and quick-witted wordplay. It is best remembered for the tongue twister: “The pellet with the poison’s in the vessel with the pestle; the chalice from the palace has the brew that is true!” This iconic line truly highlights its clever humor.

National Film Registry Selection

In 2004, the Library of Congress recognized The Court Jester. They included it in the National Film Registry, deeming it “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.” This selection recommends it for preservation, which underscores its importance in cinema history.

Star-studded Cast

Danny Kaye delivers a memorable, energetic performance. Glynis Johns provides a charming counterpart, and Basil Rathbone excels as the villainous Sir Ravenhurst. Angela Lansbury adds royal charm, while Cecil Parker plays the tyrannical king. The ensemble cast truly brings the story to life.

Vintage Collectible Item

This VHS tape is a genuine vintage collectible. Its sealed, original shrink-wrap protects it, thereby increasing its value for collectors of classic films or VHS tapes. Owning this tape means possessing a distinct piece of cinematic history.

Support a Worthy Cause

By purchasing this item, you’re supporting Father Joe’s Villages’ mission to prevent and end homelessness in San Diego.

Starring: Danny Kaye, Glynis Johns, Basil Rathbone, Angela Lansbury, Cecil Parker
Movie Year: 1955
VHS Year: 1983 (Paramount Home Video)
Condition: Donated new, sealed, shrink-wrap shows some wear