An Evening with Orson Welles: The Happy Prince

About This Movie

So, 'An Evening with Orson Welles: The Happy Prince' is this fascinating little gem from 1970. It’s a half-hour studio reading where Welles brings Oscar Wilde’s story to life with his unmistakable voice and flair. The atmosphere is quite intimate, almost like sitting in on a private performance. Welles captures the essence of Wilde’s narrative, balancing a poetic tone with a somber, reflective pacing. The practical effects are minimal, as it’s more about Welles’ performance and the text itself, which works beautifully. It’s an interesting piece of history, especially in the context of home video—created for the Cartrivision system that never really took off. Definitely a unique watch for those who appreciate Welles and Wilde.

This film is particularly intriguing as it represents an early attempt at home video, tied to the ill-fated Cartrivision format. As a collectible, it's somewhat scarce, given the limited distribution and the niche appeal of both Welles and Wilde. Collectors often seek it out not just for its content but also for its historical significance in the evolution of home entertainment.