The King's Double

About This Movie

So, 'The King's Double' is an interesting little piece from 1932 that you don't hear much about. It's this quirky story where a cowardly king of Puerto-Nero hires Berlock Sholmes – sort of a twist on Holmes, I guess – to find him a double. Leducq, a street hawker from Paris, ends up stepping into the role and, in a bizarre turn, becomes king of Chimeria and gets involved with the queen, who he suspects might be a double herself. The atmosphere has this odd blend of farce and drama, with practical effects that really stand out for the time. The pacing can feel a bit uneven, but it has a charm, especially in the performances. It's a lesser-known gem that’s definitely worthy of a deeper dive.

This film is quite rare, with few prints surviving, making it a little treasure for collectors. Its history isn’t well-documented, which adds to the allure, and many enthusiasts are drawn to the distinctive blend of comedy and drama. Although it might not be on everyone’s radar, the film’s odd premise and execution have sparked interest among niche collectors, seeking out those hidden gems of cinema from the early 1930s.