I feel safe in saying that this 1982 TV version of THE SCARLET PIMPERNEL is the greatest ever made. In fact, I might even go so far as to say that it is the most entertaining historical fiction piece ever made.

Anthony Andrews is perfect as the foppish dandy Sir Perceval Blakeney. My boyfriend and I constantly quote him, and I'm currently reading the novel by Baroness Orczy, and I can't imagine Sir Percy sounding any different. His slow, stunted drawl is wonderful. Andrews is a superb actor; my favorite part of the movie is seeing him switch between being Sir Perceval Blakeney, the fop, and Sir Perceval Blakeney, the Scarlet Pimpernel.

Sir Ian McKellen also delivers a stunning performance as Paul Chauvelin, the agent of the French Republic who is so determined to capture the Scarlet Pimpernel, and whose fiancée Sir Percy steals. McKellen has always been a consummate actor, and his role in this film is no different. I especially like the scene where Chauvelin and Sir Percy first meet; the verbal sparring is unequaled.

Jane Seymour is also fabulous in the role of Marguerite St. Just, later Lady Blakeney. I'm not sure whether the hair is typical of the late eighteenth century or just of the early 1980s, but if you can look beyond that, Seymour is gorgeous and talented.

Some other actors in smaller parts who are brilliant are Eleanor David, as Louise, and Malcolm Jamieson, as Armand St. Just.

The costumes are breathtaking, the action is stunning, the script is perfect, and the acting is splendid. If you're a fan of historical fiction films, this is a must-see.

There is only one word that can describe this movie. EXCELLENT! This is one of those movies that you sit down expecting it to be pretty good and when it is done you are left with a smile on your face. You are left with the sense that you have to watch it over and over again. Antony Andrews is fabulous in this movie and really captures the true character of Sir Percy. Jayne Seymour is charming, beautiful, and lovable. Both actors could not have created a more romantic atmosphere, which is essential to the story. Other buyers be warned, this movie will "knock your soxs off."

Ever since I was 6 or 7 this has been my favorite movie. At 7 my parents gave me a kitten for xmas, first thing I did was name him after the Scarlet Pimpernel...Sir Percy Blakeney. Now 20 years later both he and the movie continue to delight and entertain my freinds, family and most importantly, myself. At 27 I am just as in love with the characters today as I was when I was 7.

One of the most fantastic period pieces in my opinion. It's wonderful to see all those amazing actors so young and still amazingly talented. Wonderfully directed and acted! The costumes and the sets are also incredible. Such a classic.

I love this movie. I first saw it on TV and have searched for this version of the movie FOREVER. I bought it as soon as it became available on DVD. But I was so disappointed because it is not closed captioned for the hearing impaired. If you need captioning beware it's a rare not captioned movie.

From the time I saw this movie at age 14, it has been one of my (and my entire family's & many friends) favorites--finally on DVD! Thank you to the brilliant person who thought of a DVD version. This is, by far, the best version of Baroness Orczy's classic novel (there are many, beginning with Leslie Howard's, David Nivens', etc.)

It makes for a satisfying dose of historical drama, romance, adventure, sacrifice, suspense, swordplay and humor.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for your home video/DVD collection!

P.S. The Scarlet Pimpernel is actually the first in a long series of novels by Baroness Orczy! If you want to add worthwhile titles to your reading list, take a look at blakeneymanor.com--you'll be in for a wonderful surprise!