Synopsis

In 1862, Anna Leonowens arrives in Siam to teach English to the children and wives of King Mongkut. Her independent nature clashes with the king's rigid traditions, but their disagreements gradually become mutual respect. As political pressure threatens the kingdom, Anna's lessons and influence help the royal household confront a changing world.

Factoids & Trivia

• The film adapts the 1951 Rodgers and Hammerstein stage musical, which was based on Margaret Landon's 1944 book Anna and the King of Siam.

• It was filmed in CinemaScope and DeLuxe Color, allowing 20th Century Fox to emphasize its large sets, elaborate costumes, and Jerome Robbins-inspired dance sequences.

• Deborah Kerr's singing was performed by Marni Nixon, who also provided the singing voice for several other major screen musicals. Kerr retained her speaking performance.

• Yul Brynner had already played the King on Broadway and repeated the role for the film. His performance became one of his signature screen portrayals.

• The movie won five Academy Awards, including Best Actor for Brynner, Best Art Direction-Set Decoration, Best Costume Design, Best Music Score, and Best Sound Recording.

• The film was a major success for 20th Century Fox and helped establish "Shall We Dance?" and "Getting to Know You" as enduring musical standards.

• The story's historical portrayal of Siam and Anna Leonowens has been criticized for simplifying or romanticizing the real people and events.