Chamberlain's LouisXIV was utterly amazing, perfect in every aspect! Chamberlain's Philippe on the other hand could not have been more opposite to the Dumas's literary figure. Philippe seemed spoiled, self-centred, and egotistical. The Iron Mask itself stayed on the "unfortunate Prince" for what seemed like the insignificant period of two weeks -if that- and D'Artagnan (Jordan) wore the mask for more scenes than Philippe. Another fact that irked me was the fact that the movie played upon romantic interest between Philippe and Louise de La Valliere which if any reader knows the true history of LouisXIV knows La Valliere is the FIRST mistress. (spoiler part) When Philippe permanently takes the throne, he and La Valliere are happily united... but wait... it ends that way yet later in life Louis takes Marquis Athenais Montespan then Mme. Maintenon... where's that "undying love?" The plot for Philippe to take the throne is sufficeintly elaborate and LouisXIV in this version was PERFECT; I cannot reiterate it enough!
Review of The Man in the Iron Mask
The Man in the Iron Mask
(1977 TV Movie)
(Plot Description/Spoiler) LouisXIV was PERFECT! Philippe was lacking....
27 December 2000
Warning: Spoilers