Henry IV usurps the English throne, sets in motion the factious War of the Roses and now faces a rebellion led by Northumberland scion Hotspur. Henry's heir, Prince Hal, is a ne'er-do-well carouser who drinks and causes mischief with his low-class friends, especially his rotund father figure, John Falstaff. To redeem his title, Hal may have to choose between allegiance to his real father and loyalty to his friend.
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🔍 Search on JustWatch →The film operates in a light register — but not superficially. Behind each joke is an observation about people, not just a desire to amuse.
Goes down easy, leaves a good aftertaste. Not every joke lands equally — but the overall tone holds.
For those who just want to relax. Asks nothing — just time and a willingness to smile.
Director: Orson Welles
— MovieFinder Editorial
Best Watched
Viewing atmosphere: Weekend afternoon, the couch, something to snack on. Turn off your brain and enjoy.
Orson Welles
Falstaff
Keith Baxter
Prince Hal
John Gielgud
Henry IV
Jeanne Moreau
Doll Tearsheet
Margaret Rutherford
Mistress Quickly
Marina Vlady
Kate Percy
Walter Chiari
Mr. Silence
Michael Aldridge
Pistol
Tony Beckley
Ned Poins
Jeremy Rowe
Prince John
Audience Score
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