Film vs Film
Select two cult films to compare side by side.
Love or a Kingdom Synopsis
Barbara Radziwillówna, the daughter of the noble house of Radziwill, accidentally meets the future Polish king Zygmunt August under embarrassing circumstances. She introduces herself as a member of a forester's family, whereas the heir to the Polish throne describes himself as a squire serving the king. Their passionate love affair leads to a secret marriage which is revealed shortly before Zygmunt's coronation. However, the queen mother is furious at this turn of events as she has always planned a truly royal spouse for her son. Members of the parliament refuse to sanction the marriage, but the king's plea for recognition of his bride eventually breaks down all opposition. But the queen mother reverts to Borgia-like tactics to get rid of the unwanted daughter-in-law and the tragedy pursues.
The Great Shadow Synopsis
Jim McDonald, the foreman of a shipbuilding plant and head of the labor union, strives to combat the anarchistic propaganda being put forth by Klimoff, the leader of a Bolshevik gang whose goal is to disrupt the country with strikes and anarchy. Despite McDonald's efforts, a strike is called, resulting in chaos. McDonald's child is knocked down by runaway horses abandoned by their striking driver, and dies. Mob scenes take place in America, as well as in Russia. Eventually, the unrest is quelled with an armistice called between Capital and Labor for a year, during which time wages are to be increased to reflect the cost of living, and leaders are to work out a common plan for their mutual advantage. The strikers now realize that they have been pawns of the Bolsheviks and call off the strike, agreeing to the plan.
"Love or a Kingdom" holds a slight edge in general audience appreciation, but "The Great Shadow" offers its own unique cult appeal.
Suggested Watch:
Love or a KingdomBoth films share