‘The Man Who Would Be King’ trailer title, 1975

Director John Huston originally intended to film The Man Who Would Be King (based on a short story by Rudyard Kipling) in the 1950s with Humphrey Bogart and Clark Gable. The production didn’t come together until the 1970s, allowing Sean Connery and Michael Caine to step into the starring roles of Danny and Peachy.

A royal team-up: Sean Connery (Danny) and Michael Caine (Peachy)

A rollicking adventure tale filled with humor, action and enticing scenery,The Man Who Would Be King follows a pair of roguish former soldiers as they ascend to power in 19th Century Kafiristan.

The film is one of my favorites from the 70s. I would have been nine years old when my mother took us to see the movie in the theater. Sadly, I can’t remember the last time I heard someone talking about this picture or have seen it playing on TV. Will someone set up a revival showing of this film and have Connery, Caine and co-star, Christopher Plummer speak afterwards? All of these wonderful actors are still around and in their 80s. I don’t mean to be morose – but hurry!

Here’s the original 1975 trailer hosted by John Huston. Roll it – then watch the entire film again. I intend to. It’s been well over a decade since I’ve enjoyed the tale.

The Man Who Would Be King Wiki, IMDb
The Man Who Would Be King review at Every70sMovie

Previously on Trailer Tuesday: ‘All That Jazz’ (1979)