Watch Scarlet Pimpernel

In the 1934 film Scarlet Pimpernel, based on the novel by Baroness Orczy, Leslie Howard stars as Sir Percy Blakeney, a British nobleman who secretly poses as a daring French hero known as the Scarlet Pimpernel in order to rescue French aristocrats from the guillotine during the Reign of Terror. When Sir Percy's wife Marguerite (Merle Oberon) is sent to France on a mission, she becomes unwittingly embroiled in the conflict between the Pimpernel and his enemy Chauvelin (Raymond Massey), a scheming French agent who is determined to capture and execute the elusive hero.

The plot unfolds in a series of dramatic twists and turns as Marguerite, torn between her loyalty to her country and her love for her husband, races against time to uncover the identity of the Pimpernel before it's too late. Meanwhile, Sir Percy struggles to maintain his disguise while outwitting Chauvelin and his henchmen at every turn.

The film is a tale of bravery, romance, and adventure set against the backdrop of a turbulent period in French history. The lavish sets and costumes, combined with Howard's charismatic portrayal of the dashing hero, make for a visually stunning and compelling story.

Although the film is set in the 18th century, its themes of espionage, political intrigue, and noble sacrifice remain relevant today. As Marguerite and Sir Percy navigate the dangerous waters of betrayal and loyalty, they provide a timeless example of the power of love and courage in the face of adversity.

Scarlet Pimpernel was a critical and commercial success upon its release in 1934, cementing Leslie Howard's reputation as one of Hollywood's leading actors. The film was remade several times over the years, including a 1982 television series starring Anthony Andrews and Jane Seymour, but the original remains a classic of its genre.

Overall, Scarlet Pimpernel is a thrilling adventure story that will captivate audiences with its suspenseful plot, vivid characters, and stirring themes. Whether viewed as a historical drama or a timeless tale of heroism, the film remains a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit in even the darkest of times.

Scarlet Pimpernel is a 1934 action movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 34 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3.