Zenda (film)

Zenda most commonly refers to film adaptations of the novel The Prisoner of Zenda by Anthony Hope. This romantic adventure story, first published in 1894, has been adapted for the screen numerous times. Prominent adaptations include:

• The Prisoner of Zenda (1937): A black-and-white film starring Ronald Colman in the dual role of Rudolf Rassendyll and King Rudolf V. Considered a classic of the genre.
• The Prisoner of Zenda (1952): Another adaptation, this time in Technicolor, starring Stewart Granger, Deborah Kerr, and James Mason. Also well-regarded.
• The Prisoner of Zenda (1979): A comedic adaptation starring Peter Sellers in a dual role. This version takes a more lighthearted approach to the story.

These films generally follow the plot of the novel, where an English gentleman on vacation in Ruritania is persuaded to impersonate the king, who has been drugged on the eve of his coronation, to prevent his power-hungry brother from taking the throne. The story involves political intrigue, sword fights, romance, and themes of duty and honor.

The term "Zenda (film)" can also be used more broadly to refer to any film based on or directly inspired by The Prisoner of Zenda, even if it takes significant liberties with the source material.