[Crowd Noise]
King Chulalongkorn: She was the first Englishwoman
I had ever met,
and it seemed to me she knew more about the world than anyone,
but it was a world Siam was afraid would consume them.
The monsoon winds had whispered her arrival like a coming storm.
Some welcomed the rain, but others feared a raging flood.
Still, she came,
unaware of the suspicion that preceded her.
But it wasn't until years later that I began to appreciation how brave she was.
And how alone she must've felt.
An Englishwoman,
the fiirst I'd ever met.
[Shouting ln Siamese]
Mother, come look. I think they've killed someone!
Louis, do take care about the railing, honey.
Beebe, Moonshee, gather your things.
It's time we went ashore now. Come on, Louis.
I still think that we should wait until someone from the palace arrives.
Yes, well, if they were coming, they would've been here already.
- Besides, the ship is leaving. - My point exactly.
Good-bye, Mrs. Leonowens. Uh, watch your step.
Louis?
[Arguing ln Siamese]
Louis.
Pardon me.
Louis, come along, darling.
- Mother? - Yes?
Why does this king need you if nobody here speaks English?
Because the ways of England are the ways of the world.
It's a wise man who knows that.
Memsahib,
in less than an hour the Newcastle sails,
not to return for another month.
Tonight, we shall all sleep in our own beds in our own home, I promise.
Ah, madam, madam, madam, a carriage? Where, a carriage?
Wait, wait. Ah...
[Stumbling ln Siamese]
This way, darling. This way. Come on.
What do you suppose he's like, this King Mongkut, hmm?
Now, I've heard that people used to be forbidden
to even look at his face.
They revere him as a god.
You mean like Jesus?
No, hardly. But I suppose
if he wishes his son to be tutored
in the ways of the west, then...
I should be quite honored.
But why couldn't he just send him to London?
Then you wouldn't have the chance to learn Siamese, now, would you?
Gracious me! Are we sure this is the right road?
How would we know?
If you are not the lead elephant,
the scenery never changes.
Mother, look at those statues.
[Soldiers Drilling]
Mem Leonowens, kawrub.
Mrs. Leonowens,
His Excellency Chao Phya Kralahome,
the prime minister of Siam.
[Speaking Siamese]
Have you any friends in Bangkok, sir?
No. I know no one here.
Sir is married?
A widow.
Can you please explain to me
why you call me "sir"?
Women do not stand
in the presence of His Excellency.
[Interpreter Speaking Siamese]
How long are you in possession of dead husband?
23 months.
How did he die?
Can you please convey to His Excellency
that my purpose here
is as tutor to the king's eldest son,
that it is not necessary
to ask any more personal questions.
Please.
In Siam, sir...
it is custom
to first ask questions ofpersonal nature
to be polite.
[Speaking Siamese]
Mr. Prime Minister,
I meant no disrespect.
However, getting here was something of a challenge.
Sir will be shown to palace quarters.
Mem?
I beg your pardon?
The king promised us a home outside the palace walls.
It's what was agreed upon.
In Siam, sir,
you will learn
everything has its own time.
[Monks Chanting Sutras]
Don't bother unpacking, Moonshee. It's only for one night.
We shall all be settled to our satisfaction,
or we'll be leaving as soon as possible.
Thought we didn't have any money.
That is correct. but at the moment,
I do not need to be reminded ofthat.
[Chanting]
Sounds like we're living in a beehive.
In the morning, I shall go directly to the king.
A monarch who refuses to keep his word is uncivilized, unenlightened,
and, frankly, ungrateful.
There are principles at stake here.
Having a proper British household with some privacy
is one of them.
I don't think Siam agrees with you, Memsahib.
Mother, how can it be a proper household?
You haven't lived in England since you were a little girl,
and I've never been there at all.
India is British, Louis.
That's what being colonized is all about.
Father would've put him right in his place.
I'm very sorry I'm not the man
your fatherwas.
I'm sorry, Louis.
This is a good opportunity for us, hmm?
I shall just...
try to look at the positive side.
Assuming there is one.
Your father would've.
He was a brave man...
wasn't he?
Yes. Very.
And most considerate.
Which is more than I can say for this king.
Shall we go find your bed?
Yeah.
[Woman Keening]
Kralahome: Unfortunate your meeting so delayed, sir.
King's obligation reach into every corner ofSiam.
Anna: Well, it has given me the time
to think of many things, Your Excellency,
including why you pretended
not to speak English.
I have learned it wise to be cautious.
Then I will assume that our speaking now
is a great step forward.
Best not to assume too much.
Hmm.
When presented to His Majesty,
you and son
will remember to touch forehead to floor.
Your Excellency, although we have become
better acquainted with your customs,
we have certainly not forgotten our own.
Then how will you greet him?
With the utmost respect.
[Man Speaking French]
Mother, are those men
- speaking French? - Yes?
Apparently, a warship's run aground where it shouldn't have.
[Speaking Siamese]
Leroi vous remercie, monsieur.
It appears sir must wait
to meet His Majesty another day.
No. I do not think so. Come along.
Kralahome: Mem Leonowens.
Mem Leonowens!
Mem, wait!
Please!
Your Majesty...
I am Anna Leonowens. I'm a school--
- Stop! - Aah!
Who? Who?
Kralahome: Your Majesty,
Mem Anna Leonowens and son Louis.
Anna: Your Majesty...
we have been kept waiting for nearly 3 weeks.
And although I appreciate
that you have issues of...great importance,
I would imagine that your son's education would be far more--
Silence!
You...
are teacher?
Yes, Your Majesty, I am.
You do not look sufficient of age
for scientific teaching.
How many years have you?
Enough to know that age and wisdom
do not necessarily go hand in hand, Your Majesty.
I doubt you would say same
for being bold and English.
They are rather inseparable, I'm afraid.
His Majesty has not dismissed you. Follow him!
Come along, Louis. Up, up, up. Quickly.
Anna: Uh, pardon me.
Pardon me.
You articulate logical answer
under pressure, Mem Leonowens.
That is very kind of you, Your Majesty.
But irritating superior attitude, King find most unbeautiful.
However, it will serve you well,
given decision I now make.
First impressions can often be very misleading.
Along with my eldest son...
you shall now teach all my children.
Come.
[Children Playing]
King Mongkut: The royal family.
23 wives...
42 concubines...
58 offspring,
and 10 more on the way.
Each one unique,
each one my hope for the future.
I understand your surprise.
Not as many as emperor ofChina,
but he did not spend half of life
in monastery.
King making up for lost time.
Mother, what's a concubine?
Shh.
[Gong Sounds]
Presenting original pupil
and heir apparent
Prince Chulalongkorn.
This, my son,
is your new teacher.
It is a great honor, Your Highness.
He doesn't look too happy about it.
This is a necessary and practical gift
I give to you,
and you must never forget to honor
your renowned teacher
Mem Anna Leonowens.
Ahem! Uh...
[Speaking Siamese]
Oh. Must not forget head wife
the Lady Thiang.
It is my pleasure
that you help make her fine scholar also.
Lady Thiang.
Welcome, Mem teacher.
Prince...
Thongkon Yai.
Prince Suk Sawat.
Princess Kannika Kaeo.
[Laughter]
and Princess Fa-ying.
I'm not princess. I'm monkey!
Ha ha! My deepest apologies.
[Speaks Siamese]
I study her in English myself.
Well, Your Majesty,
I am most flattered by your welcome,
and I find the opportunity to be in school
an exciting one.
Such devotion to progress is to be commended.
[Coughs]
Reform is vital for my country's survival.
As tiny feet change, so, too, will Siam.
But being in a country with so many unique customs,
If l am to raise my son to be like his father,
which I very much hope he will be,
then I must feel free to follow our own traditions.
As a father, I understand.
Good. Then His Majesty will appreciate
why having a home outside the palace walls
is of such great importance to us.
A home which... had been promised,
but so far has not been provided.
It is my pleasure
that you live in the palace.
But it is not mine, Your Majesty.
You do not set conditions of your employment.
And you shall obey!
May I respectfully remind His Majesty
that I am not his servant, but his guest!
A guest who's paid.
Education begins tomorrow.
He sounds absolutely dreadful, ifyou ask me.
Did unnerve me, I must say.
Louis: Moonshee,
why does the king have so manywives?
That is an excellent question...
foryour mother.
Mother...
I heard you, Louis.
Well, uh... Siam is a monarchy,
just like England,
and one way that a royal family
maintains its control
in the face ofwar and disease
is to have as many children as possible.
So he needs a lot ofwives
to take care ofthem.
A keen observation, darling.
Time for bed. Come give us a kiss.
Does he love all of them?
In a way.
Like you loved father?
Things are very different here, Louis.
Even love.
Go on. Off to bed.
Mother, why doesn't Queen Victoria
have a lot of husbands?
Together: Good night, Louis.
Presenting royal school, sir.
Is anything wrong, sir?
No. No, no.
Nothing at all, Lady Thiang.
Louis,
that'll be your desk.
Yes. Well, I suppose class is now in session.
Sit down.
Greetings, Mem Leonowens.
My father wish to give sir this
to put on path of good teaching.
Well, I shall...
certainly bear that in mind, Your Highness.
Uh, may I complimentyou on your English?
Siam...
population 6 million,
spreading across 49 bountiful provinces,
from Burma in west to Cambodia in east.
Presided over by King Maha Mongkut,
Iord oflife,
whose strength and power reach everywhere.
Not in my house, they don't.
Son of teacher is forgetting
I am son of King.
Son of teacher couldn't care less.
You will sit somewhere else.
I will not.
Louis, remember what I told you.
I'm sorry, Mother,
but he started it.
In my country, man never tell woman
he is sorry about anything.
Ever.
If you had father, you would know that.
You don't have a father!
You have a map!
Louis.
Is forbidden to touch royalty!
I didn't touch you! I shoved you!
Why don'tyou get one ofyour slaves
to shove me back?!
[Children Yelling]
Anna: Let me through. Excuse me.
Stop. Stop.
That's enough. That's enough.
Why?
Prince insult memory of boy's father.
Louis: 997...998...
999...
1 ,000.
Finished.
You may go home.
Aren't you coming?
Not until Prince Chulalongkorn
finishes his task.
[Dishes Clattering]
I'm sorry, Lady Thiang,
but supper will have to wait.
The prince has not yet been dismissed.
His Majesty, King Mongkut,
afraid school teacher might get hungry
during long night ahead.
He send food...for one.
Why does my father humble me?
Well, he wants what's best for you.
For the moment, that includes me.
Why?
Most people do not see the world as it is.
They see it as they are.
And a good king needs a broaderview.
[Woman Lamenting]
Stay here, Your Highness.
[Woman Crying]
[Crying Continues]
[Crying]
What is that smell?
She has been chained outside for 6 weeks.
And all because she tried to buy her own freedom?
Mem Leonowens,
JaoJom Manda Ung is daughter of very influential family.
Yes, and when La-ore offered her the money,
she took it. Her mistress took it.
And then she accused her of ingratitude
and chained her like an animal
where the prince and I found her last night.
Heir to throne must never be involved
in issue of bond-servant.
It will resolve itself in time.
Like my house?
You are learning.
I've been been doing much thinking, Mem teacher
on why some in this life are masters,
IikeJaoJom Manda Ung,
and others, slaves.
Well, that is something that you need to ask your father.
But you are teacher.
Teach.
Um...
This was written by an American woman,
Harriet Beecher Stowe, who asked the same question.
Perhaps you should read her,
and then we might continue our discussion.
A woman?
Yes.
"Uncle Tom's Cabin. "
I shall read it at once, Mem.
Anna: Come along, Louis.
Quickly, darling.
Don't want to be late for school.
Were you not commanded to leave slave issue alone?
Your Excellency,
I'm fully prepared to obey His Majesty's commands
within the obligation of my duties.
Beyond that, I promise no obedience.
You will follow!
La-ore purchased her freedom once, Your Majesty.
And I believe, had I given this woman my ring first,
she would have simply taken it
and continued to hold La-ore captive.
King's commitment to noble families
must not be compromised.
In your letter confirming my employment, Your Majesty,
you claimed you wanted Siam to take its place
among the nations of the modern world.
You spoke of building something
greater than yourself,
a country where no man is above the law.
Which is why I chose to come here.
School teacher has outstanding memory.
Kralahome...
if you would please honor Jao Jom Manda Ung
with an explanation of the law.
[Splash]
Why did you interfere?
My conscience demanded it.
In boys' fisticuffs?
I beg your pardon?
I suppose since you must be both mother and father to son,
tendency to overprotect is strong.
Louis can fend for himself, Your Majesty.
It was your son I was protecting.
Thank you for the supper.
Although I do not think it was necessary.
I know my son.
You would still be there.
Perhaps. But then my point
would have been made, Your Majesty, not yours.
I am King.
Yes, and I am his school teacher.
Which lesson do you think he learned?
To respect his classmates
or to fear his father?
Husband must have been very understanding.
My husband was never threatened
by my ideas or my opinions.
And because I am also such, I will allow you
to always stand upright in my presence,
providing head shall never be higher than mine.
Thank you, Your Majesty.
Your Majesty,
I believe there's been enough insult
caused by this woman...
who believes herself to be the equal of a man.
Not the equal of a man, Chao Phya...
the equal of a king.
I make this for you tomorrow.
Why, thank you, Fa-ying.
It's beautiful.
These are monkeys at summer palace.
Oh, and this must beyou.
Well, I shall hang it on my wall at home.
I'll make another for you yesterday.
Then I shall wait for it tomorrow.
Lady Thiang.
Good morning, Mem Leonowens.
This is Lady Tuptim.
She's new in palace, also like yourself.
[Greets ln Siamese]
I wish...
also to learn writing of English
to--to please His Majesty, King Mongkut.
Yes, well, certainly.
But I should hope that it would please Lady Tuptim as well.
And this is for you.
Make sure all of your books are open.
Who knows the next letter in the alphabet after " E"?
Pupils: " F."
" F."
Who can tell me which words start with " F"?
King Mongkut: Fa-ying loves the river.
Hmm?
Yes, she told me all about her journey to Ayudyha.
How it is the center of the universe.
It is home to ancient ones and their many legends.
I told her that in England we have Camelot.
And a big round table.
Yes, that's right.
Everyone should have legends, I think.
It allows us to dream.
You're an interesting mix of fact and fancy.
I suppose it's because I'm always surrounded by children.
Teaching theyoung is fulfilling endeavorment.
I didn't have a choice, really.
Buddhists believe all life is suffering.
Take away pain of husband's death,
takes away Mem's chance to grow.
I might have preferred a different lesson.
Yes.
But unique opportunity to change world
would have passed to someone else.
Louis.
Do try and stay in the boat, darling.
Yesterday he asked me about your flag
and the significance of the white elephant.
I had no answer.
Louis Leonowens.
Uh, yes, Your Majesty?
I am teacher now.
The flag of Siam.
- Red is for? - Courage.
- White? - Compassion.
The white elephant is Siam's most rare
and honored creature.
Perhaps onjourney to rice festival,
we will all see one.
Rice festival?
Louis: Mother!
Mother, look!
There's Moonshee and Beebe.
King Mongkut: I trust you will find ample space
for engaging in English traditions,
even for growing of roses.
Out of curiosity,
is this because of our agreement,
or are you simply trying to get rid of me?
Yes.
Moonshee: A little soap and water,
and we will have a fine house, Mem.
Shall I make us some tea?
Yes, that would be lovely.
[Boatmen Chant]
Tuptim: I remember my first rice festival.
People come from everywhere to see King.
He bless all crops, and it began to rain.
I think he was a god.
And now?
He is also a man.
Well...
I feel very fortunate that we were invited.
One cannot see Siam's beauty
Iiving in Bangkok, Mem.
Mountains are so green,
and the skies are more blue
than even your eyes.
I must find Louis.
Louis?
May I ask a favor, Mem?
Yes, certainly.
To send this.
I wish family to know how happy I am here with King.
I'll tell Moonshee to find a messenger straightaway.
Thank you.
Mem?
May I ask a question?
Yes.
How did husband die?
In my arms, actually.
How did Mem survive?
Just as you will,
one awful day at a time.
Teacher, Louis is teasing me!
He say in England, coldness fall from sky
Iike tiny feathers.
Why would I lie about snow?
Please, Mem, it is too hot.
Can make some now?
Just because your father can make it rain,
doesn't mean I can make it snow.
King Mongkut: At last, I discover her limitations!
I have many, Your Majesty.
Father,
will you make it snow, please?
Even for you, I cannot.
But I've seen photographs of such phenomenon.
Blankets of it. Up to here.
Louis, smoke?
Me? Jolly good!
No. No!
But, Mother, he's the king.
And father smoked, too.
Yes, but your father was a man
who had already achieved his full height.
I have been smoking since age 6.
And some believe me to be a giant among men.
Yes, in intelligence
as well as stature, Your Majesty.
Which is why, Louis,
I'm sure His Majesty was only teasing.
I believe now is good time for all children
to spread amazing concept of snow to cool off court.
Yes?
Children: Yes!
I simply meant to open conversation
in controversial fashion Mem is so fond of.
I do have my opinions, Your Majesty,
but they're merely that.
I wish to compliment you for enlightening children
to open minds and taste life.
However, at this time,
I shall not offer cigar to your son,
and you shall not teach this book to mine.
Chulalongkorn has many questions,
but one cannot plow new fields in Siam overnight.
I understand, Your Majesty.
[Siamese Music]
Anna: Honestly, Louis,
I leave you alone for 5 minutes...
It was his idea.
Now just because Prince Chulalongkorn
jumps off a bridge doesn't mean you must as well.
How can anyone smoke those things?
Well, your father certainly enjoyed them.
Is that why you like him?
The king, I mean.
'Cause he reminds you of father?
I think that cigar has clouded your brain, young man.
Go on, go to sleep.
Kincaid: You drag me out in the middle of the night
and turn down 5 pounds a bushel!
Siamese Merchant: French offer 7.
What is the matter with you people?
You seem to have a very high opinion
of the quality of your produce.
That is the best price you're gonna get!
Not gonna offer any more!
No more concessions! That's it!
[Speaking Siamese]
[Shouting]
[Gunfire]
Now, we all know that this egg
will never fit into this bottle.
It's a fact.
It's the truth.
And we rely on truth to make judgments, don't we?
What if our judgment is wrong,
even when we know for a fact that it must be right?
Do we rely on our eyes?
Or do we believe in the impossible?
You see, one way to achieve the impossible
is to change the climate.
[Clattering Of Desks]
The French say I am uncivilized ruler.
I, who has spent entire life
attempting to teach selfhistory,
Iiterature, and science.
Why would they print such things, Your Majesty?
You are English.
You should not be so surprised.
Well, I can still be appalled.
More importantly,
do you, as a foreigner,
see me in this light?
I do not know all that you are, Your Majesty.
But I believe I know what you are not.
And you are not what they say.
Thank you, Mem,
for humble validation.
I have decided
to give self anniversary dinner
and invite important English nobles and diplomats.
I don't understand.
French lndo-china grows stronger
and more aggressive.
But if l improve our foreign intercourse
with your queen's special envoy,
French will think 3 times
before trying to undermine Siam.
That's very clever, Your Majesty.
As if to sound English bugles in own defense.
You shall take charge of all formalities,
as Mem is obvious choice
to make certain guests feel at home.
But the anniversary is when?
3 weeks from yesterday.
3 weeks!
That's impossible.
Mem?
The egg...
is in the bottle.
[Speaking Siamese]
Half a glass.
[Speaking Siamese]
[Smashing Glass]
Ah.
Your Majesty, we cannot have the servants
bow every time somebody walks into the banquet.
I understand.
[Speaking Siamese]
Just...for one night.
Thank you, Your Majesty.
Sorry for nervousness.
This is first time in Siam history
that King allow everyone to stand up in his presence...
but only for tonight.
Your country and mine have much in common, Your Majesty.
Rich cultures, long histories.
And now, it seems, Mrs. Leonowens.
Yes, my children's horizons
keep expanding under her tutelage.
Ah.
[Laughs]
My husband and I have been stationed
all over the Orient.
But I must say, I've never seen anything
quite like this.
Extraordinary, isn't it?
Grand palace born from the mind of King Taksin,
first man to unify all Siam.
Our country owes its creation
to a man they declared insane.
Well, these roof tops are a little nutty.
He endeavored to build an empire,
but the nobility that ran Siam
for generations had grown tired
of his wars...
and replaced him with Mongkut's grandfather,
someone they could influence.
Taksin they put in a velvet sack,
beaten to death with a sandal wood club
and buried somewhere in palace.
Oh, dear.
It sounds as though you admire him, General.
I admire vision, Lady Bradley,
in all its forms.
Forgive me, Your Majesty.
I believe the sun set a little earlier today.
Mem, you arrange all this to influence
positive future of Siam.
And now, you steal attention away from it.
Oh.
Well, that was not my intention, Your Majesty.
Mrs. Leonowens, what a delightful surprise,
encountering such an enchanting countryman...
and so far from home.
Lord Bradley, this is indeed a great honor.
I'm half-crazy
All for the love of you
It won't be a stylish marriage
I can't afford a carriage
But you'd look sweet upon the seat
Of a bicycle made for two
[Applause]
Gracious ladies, kind sirs,
on behalf of 68 brothers and sisters,
we thank you immeasurably
and bid you most gracious evening.
Your son bears a striking resemblance
to his father, Mrs. Leonowens.
I had the good fortune of serving with him
a few years ago.
He was a courageous soldier, ma'am.
Well, thank you, Captain Blake.
Fa-ying: Father, may I please kiss good night?
If l may beg indulgence
for not wishing to break family tradition.
Ah.
I will be there in your dreams,
as you will be in mine.
Good night.
You have a remarkable family, King Mongkut.
A remarkably...large one.
Hardly seems fair.
All these women for one man.
Makes me wish I were Siamese myself. Ha.
Mycroft Kincaid of East lndia Trading Company,
correct?
Guilty as charged, Your Majesty.
Mr. Kincaid's company is merely one of the ways
we try to foster economic relations
with other countries, Your Majesty.
Also, I think, to arrive at forefront of world
in wealth and power, yes?
Still, progress through commerce is logic.
King find most practical
and excellent topic for discussion.
All due respect, Your Majesty.
It is a little far-fetched to think
that commerce alone will bring progress to your people.
Especially when they're awash with, uh, superstition
and fear, like your lovely concubines here
with their talismans, worn, no doubt,
to protect them from us foreign devils.
A friend once said, Mr. Kincaid,
English also have fantastical beliefs.
Or am I mistaking your country
for being land of Merlin and Camelot?
Ah. Point taken, Your Majesty.
However, there's no arguing the superiority of the English.
And in the light of these dreadful massacres
up and down your border,
it's no wonder you're seeking our favor.
Superiority, Mr. Kincaid?
I do not recall anyone being given the right
to judge whose cultural customs are superior.
Especially when those judging
have frequently done so at the point of a gun.
Would you not agree, Your Majesty?
Quite.
[Sighs]
Lord Bradley: Well, the evenings here
are certainly warmer than in London.
Hear, hear.
A night made to order for anniversary party.
Especially for a king who is most...
charitable and forgiving.
To our host,
a true gentleman, generous in everyway.
May history mark this occasion
as the first step
towards forging an alliance between our two countries.
His Majesty.
All: His Majesty.
And in honor of our most distinguished guests,
a waltz,
as is European custom of dancing after dinner.
I--I must tell you, Your Majesty,
that I have not done this in some time.
And, well, seeing as the evening has gone so well,
we wouldn't want to end up in a heap, now would we?
I am King. I shall lead.
[Orchestra Plays A Waltz]
I never danced
with an Englishwoman before, Mem.
Nor I with a king.
I want you to make promise, Mem,
to always tell King what you think...
no matter what,
Iike the man from East lndia Company.
I always have.
[Whispering]
[Laughing]
[Humming]
Mem, you're humming.
[Laughs]
Yes, I suppose I am.
As alarming as this may sound,
I'm feeling rather at home here now.
What charming people, hmm?
You remember when this market place
used to terrify us?
Like it was yesterday.
I was afraid that dinner might unsettle you,
all those Englishmen in uniform.
Yes.
Thought it would make me miserably homesick.
Quite the opposite.
I rather enjoyed myself, even the dancing.
Should we get some of these?
[Speaking Siamese]
Um...uh--uh--
[Speaking Siamese]
And how did His Majesty fare amongst all your countrymen?
He was charming, absolutely charming.
Ha. I don't think I'll ever forget
how he stood there,
holding his hand out to me as ifl was--
One of his 26 wives.
Well, thank you, Beebe.
I hadn't thought of it in that way.
Well, perhaps you should.
[Speaking Siamese]
I have a surprise for you.
How--How did you?
Well, I'm not quite sure actually.
Thank you, Mem.
My family, it's very important to me.
I shall leave you to enjoy every word, then.
Your Majesty.
You sent for me?
Ah, yes. But here, look.
Ha.
Ah ha.
Something tells me
my little monkey did not go to bed
night of anniversary.
Yes, I know. I've been presented
with drawings of couples dancing ever since.
Ah ha.
Come.
Sit, please.
[Clears Throat]
Perhaps you should simply say
what it is you are trying so hard not to.
I share this with you, Mem,
because I believe you to be trust worthy.
Events are happening
which I now believe to be of Burmese origin,
and I fear that military action is unavoidable.
But Burma's British.
Yes.
Then it is not the French
that you were worried about, was it?
I see.
On table, Mem,
is small gift of appreciation for your many efforts
at anniversary party.
Mem's hand has been lonely without such.
It is most kind, Your Majesty.
It's very beautiful,
and though I am terribly grateful--
It is custom to bestow favors
for those who please King...
and Mem has done so.
I'm sorry.
I cannot accept such generosity.
[Bugling]
I hardly think 10 days rain
warrants the call to battle, Louis.
Moonshee: May I suggest a retreat?
Mother, I think I should have a topknot
Iike the other boys.
I think you've gone a bit daft, darling.
With all this rain, it's no wonder.
I don't see why I have to miss school.
Because your classroom's underwater,
and I cannot have you ill.
Balat: " My most precious Tuptim,
"I know you will understand why I must write this to you.
"When you were torn from my heart,
"I was left with nothing but my faith.
"Which is why, if l am to live,
"I must devote my life to Buddha,
"for only he can give me peace.
I will never forget you."
[Wind Blowing]
[Shutter Banging]
Kralahome: Fa-ying was found in the garden,
riddled with fever.
Difficult even for a grown man to survive such.
Cholera always in world,
but still hardly at all in Bangkok.
Is there nothing you can do?
Well, they have already begun. Listen.
Phra Arahan.
Reminding soul to go to heaven and not lose way.
[Chanting]
It is why Mem must not be heard weeping,
as her soul will attach to sadness
and remain to comfort living.
His Majesty is grateful.
The little one has made frequent mention
of sir's name.
[Speaking Siamese]
[Praying ln Siamese]
Your Majesty...
being as the rain has stopped,
the children hoped you might join them
for a picnic.
Mem, I will always remember your feelings for my daughter,
and you shall never forget...
you are not here to teach King.
The children miss you terribly, Your Majesty.
You cannot shut the world out forever.
Believe me, I've tried.
When my Tom died,
I thought that my heart would never mend,
but then there was Louis.
He was my salvation, you see.
And yet, you still refuse to live.
I beg your pardon?
A mother, a teacher, a widow,
but you're never just woman.
That is not fair.
In spite of all you say,
Mem is not accepting passing of husband.
It is why you so protect son
and why you devote all time to books and issues
and why you cannot accept gift.
Why are you doing this?
Because you lie even to yourself.
So do not lecture me about living.
You are not qualified.
[Monkeys Shrieking]
[Speaking Siamese]
[Laughs]
These hours are meant for sleep.
Ha. You startled me.
I thought it wise to do so.
May I ask what His Majesty is doing awake
at such an ungodly hour?
Gazing at the moon.
Yes, it is beautiful.
As the sun rises, she will surrender the night,
but she is always with him,
even when he cannot see her.
It must be a great comfort to him.
Yes.
Ah.
[Clears Throat]
This come from Bangkok.
You may find it of some interest.
It's from--
Yes.
Please, to read...
as monkey has stolen King's spectacles.
"Your Majesty,
"The United States sincerely appreciates
"your generous offer to help end this tragic conflict.
" Unfortunately, our country does not reach a latitude
"which favors the elephant.
"We are, however,
"highly grateful for this indication of friendship.
Your good friend, Abraham Lincoln."
I admire this man
for what he is trying to do for his people.
They say, at the battle of Antietum,
70,000 men killed each other in one day.
And each one of those soldiers
has a father who grieves.
I'm father to all of Siam.
Mem is not wrong about moving on.
Neither were you, Your Majesty.
[Clears Throat]
When we return,
it is time for teacher to teach Chulalongkorn and others
any subject she wish, as long as King know first
so can be prepared for consequences.
I will do my best, Your Majesty.
And I was always believing English women...
slept in hats.
Heh Heh. Ha.
Wonderful! Wonderful!
King Mongkut: I have been wondering, Mem.
Hmm?
When it's my son's time to become King,
will he be a good one?
Ah, he's still a boy, Your Majesty,
but a keenly intelligent one...
with a warm heart, sympathetic soul--
qualities, I believe, of a great king.
I want to thank you for bringing me here...
to Siam. I cannot imagine anywhere
I would rather be.
Were you happy in Bombay?
I was never unhappy.
I find myself traveling from place to place
wondering where it is that I belong exactly.
And I find myself here.
Your path is as it should be.
My mind has taken me down many roads oflate,
all of which lead absolutely nowhere.
What would Buddha say of that?
That roads are for journeys, Mem...
not destinations.
Don't your wives ever get jealous?
I do not understand significance of question.
Forgive me, I was prying.
Oh, no, no, please, continue.
Well, most of the world believes that...
a man and a woman should share a relationship
which is sacred only unto themselves.
Heh heh.
Each one of my wives believes same about King.
Not everyone can marry you, Your Majesty.
Good thing.
King need his rest sometime.
[Horse Whinnies]
[Gunshot]
You said my instincts were good.
And what are they telling you?
That you're not drinking, either.
[Choking]
Aah!
[Moaning]
[Grunting]
All the bodies were stripped and left to the sun.
I fear Prince Chowfa and Alakwere cremated
with the others.
May their souls rest in peace.
You couldn't have prevented
your brother's death, Your Majesty.
Send my armies north.
If Burma wants this war, they shall have it.
Lord Bradley?
Lady Bradley. Mr. Kincaid.
If l might have a moment of your time.
I'm afraid, Mrs. Leonowens, a moment is all we have.
We are leaving on the next boat, my dear,
and so should you.
My life is here, Lady Bradley.
Kincaid: Nasty business.
All this sabre-rattling.
Not good for trade, I can tell you.
But the king's brother is most likely dead,
as is his general.
I would hardly call his action unprovoked.
What can I do for you, Mrs. Leonowens?
Are the British behind these attacks on Siam?
Kincaid: Puh!
Stick to teaching, Mrs. Leonowens.
It's obvious you know nothing about politics.
Burma would not make a move
without England's blessing, that I know.
Precisely.
But if this crisis isn't resolved soon,
and a country under our protection
is threatened,
we will have no choice but to defend our interests.
Our protection?
Our interests?
The ways of England
are the ways of the world, my dear.
They are the ways of one world, Lady Bradley,
one that I ashamed to call my own.
You forget yourself, madam.
Now, ifyou'll excuse us.
No, I will not.
You raised your glass to him.
You commended him for his vision,
and all the while you were waiting
to take his country from him.
How the empire conducts its business
is really none of your concern.
Last time I inquired, Lord Bradley,
I was still a British subject.
A fact you would do well to remember, madam,
next time you're cheek to cheek with the king.
Anna: What is it?
Oh, my dear girl, what have you done?
What I have done is not a result of King
or intention to dishonor.
A concubine's heart is of no consequence to King
consumed with matters of a whole universe.
Oh, but, Tuptim, why did you not come to me?
The king might have understood.
You simply can't do this to him, not now.
If love was a choice,
who would ever choose such exquisite pain?
This is what I need His Majesty to know,
if such does not compromise you.
I will tell him anything you wish.
I thank Buddha for giving me direction.
And now, with Mem before me,
I thank him for giving me true friend.
[Soldier Yelling ln Siamese]
[Soldier Giving Orders ln Siamese]
He wrote to me to bid me farewell,
believing I was lost forever to the inside,
so committed his life to monastery.
[Crowd Murmuring]
Aah! Aah!
Stop it! Stop it! Do you hear me?
Don't you dare lay another hand
on that woman!
She has done nothing
but to try and fiind some happiness!
I will go to the king!
He will put an end to this savagery!
[Gong Rings]
[Door Opens]
Thank you for seeing me, Your Majesty.
I was told by your prime minister
that this was none of my concern.
King Mongkut: It is none of Mem's concern,
and King is seeing you now
to tell you same himself.
Forgive me, Your Majesty, but--
I do not wish for you to talk more
on this matter, to King or anyone.
Well, I was only trying--
Tuptim broke law!
By loving someone.
"Sacrifice your life for truth."
" Persecute no man."
Are these not the teachings of Buddha?
I am King, and I say enough!
You asked me to always tell you what I think.
What you think, and what you do,
and how, and when you do them
are not the same thing.
If you believe I wish to execute this girl.
But now, because you say to court
you can tell King what to do,
I cannot intervene as I had planned.
Intervene after they're tortured?
Yes!
But you, a woman and a foreigner,
have made it seem King at your command!
You have made me appear weak
and impossible for me to step in
and not lose face!
But you are the king.
And to remain such,
I cannot undermine my ability
to command loyalty,
which I must have to keep country secure!
You have the power to lead your--
Now is not the time to change the way
that things are done!
Well, ifnot now, then when?
How many more people must die
so that you might save face?
Go home, Mem.
You help enough for one day.
[Crowd Chanting AndJeering]
[Drums Beating]
For the life of me, I don't know
how you people can stand this heat.
You have 5 minutes, Mr. Kincaid.
I suggest you not waste them.
I don't suppose I could have a glass of water?
Right. Then, I'll come straight to the point.
As you know, I do a lot of business
with the Siamese.
Many of whom have ended up dead
in recent months.
Which, as I've discovered,
is all part of some elaborate plot
to make you think we British are the villains.
Well, I happen to know we're not.
The acquisition
ofa particular little piece of information
has cost me a small fortune,
but the fact is, when all is said and done,
I make more money with Mongkut on the throne.
So, I think I'm about to become
your best friend.
Your Majesty, Alak will not stop
until all of your children
are in velvet sacks.
Kincaid said
he'll blame the coup on Burma,
then launch a full-scale attack
using your troops
already protecting the border.
Alak seeks to finish what Taksin only dreamed of.
Taksin was insane.
No. He was betrayed...
as we are now.
How long before Alak reaches the city?
A week, maybe less.
And my armies?
They will never reach the palace in time.
Then he has already won.
I will evacuate
the royal family at once.
No. Recall the army
and announce to the people
we have just received glad tidings.
Glad tidings, Your Majesty?
[Crowds Cheering]
Man: Chahngseekao!
Mother, doesn't chahngseekao
mean white elephant?
Do you think they found one?
Yes. A white elephant
in Prachin Buri.
The entire village has seen it.
The first in 20 years!
Mind Louis, Moonshee. I'll see to our tickets.
I don't want to go, Mother.
I don't want to leave my friends.
The king has done good things, too.
Your mother has much on her mind, Louis.
You said the Siamese people are just like us.
And what about Chulalongkorn?
Doesn't he matter anymore?
Believe me, darling. I wish this
could all be very different.
It's the right decision.
We must go.
Sir, you of all are most aware
there are certain boundaries
I cannot cross,
one being to contradict King.
Yes, and God help him. Excuse me.
Passage for 4 on Newcastle.
Thank you.
There is no white elephant, sir.
King invented sighting at Prachin Buri
so he could escort royal family
to greet imaginary beast as in tradition.
I don't understand.
There is a traitor marching on palace.
Deception's only purpose
is to hide children in monastery
in village of Nong Khai.
Please, Mem.
My king believes you are wise.
You are only one who can persuade him
to stay with children
until army returns to Bangkok
and palace is secure.
Please, Mem?
I have just been informed
of the nature of your expedition,
Your Majesty, and, um,
I would like to ask a few questions
about the dangers involved,
as I've heard, at times,
wild elephants cannot be reasoned with.
I am surprised the Kralahome
took time to arouse such curiosity,
rather than make sure Mem
not miss her boat.
We have already missed our boat, Your Majesty,
so that I might speak with you now.
King cannot miss his boat.
If it would not be inconvenient,
we should like to go with you.
Jungle is no place
for proper English teacher.
No, it is not, Your Majesty,
which is why the presence of one in your cortege
might help ensure your display.
Something I feel, for many reasons,
I would very much like to do.
When a woman who has much to say
says nothing,
her silence can be deafening.
I wish to thank you, Mem,
for your courage.
I thought I never wanted to see you again.
I had a vision of young Tuptim and of Balat.
I think by touching us all,
they have fulfilled their destiny
and attained eternal peace.
Through birth and rebirth,
we Buddhists hope to learn from our mistakes.
You told me once that I had never
accepted the loss of my husband.
I had no right.
No, no. That was true.
I now realize
that it is not enough to just survive,
that life is precious.
Especially if you're a Christian
and only allowed to have one.
Why did you come back?
Because I could not imagine a Siam without you.
[Horse Neighs]
[Elephant Trumpets]
What has happened?
You and the children
must go on to Nong Khai without me.
I will meet you there.
I can see it in your eyes.
Something awful has happened.
Was not to be this way, Mem.
Alak's army has found us.
If he crosses the bridge,
everything I love will die.
But they're only children.
Yes.
And each one heir to throne.
Now, you must hurry.
What will you do?
Blow up the bridge.
Will that stop him?
It will, if he's on it.
Your Majesty, promise me.
Promise me that I will see you again.
If your Bible is correct,
whole world created in 7 days.
Therefore...
possible handful of men can stop an army.
But, Father, never has such an expedition excluded royal children.
My son, there are many things
you will come to understand when you're older.
Then, why can't I stay with you?
Because I need you
to lead our family to the monastery.
There is no white elephant, is there?
Come. Come.
[Horses Approaching]
Yah!
Mother, come look.
The king is waiting on the bridge.
What?
And there's hundreds of men
on the other side.
Wait. Stop the carriage.
[Bugle Playing]
Ugh!
Ahh.
[Bugle Plays]
You.
Why did you not go to monastery
Iike King order?
Because I lost one man to thejungle, Your Majesty.
I was not about to let that happen again.
Mem Anna not fully to blame, Father.
After all, you did put me in charge.
To sound...
English bugles in own defense.
Yes.
When king say handful ofman
could save all Siam,
he was most unusually incorrect.
Prince Chulalongkorn: And it be then
that all ears hear
what all eyes suddenly see.
Great white beast in infinite splendor.
[Children Chatter]
[Laughing]
Um, great white beast.
Children: Ooh!
[Laughing]
And as people rejoice with overwhelming joy.
[Children Cheering]
Most excellent conclusion
to expedition echoed in every corner ofSiam.
The end!
[Applause]
Perfect. Wonderful.
Very, very good. You did very fine jobs.
Mem?
This is play to commemorate
monumental occasion,
and we make fools of selves because of insufficient practice.
I understand truly, Your Highness,
but the celebration was tonight.
We were duty-bound, were we not?
Children: Yes.
Were we not?
I want you all to imagine next year,
when you've had time to perfect things.
Then your father will be even more proud of you
than he already is.
And you, Mem?
Will you be?
I will always be proud of you, my children.
[Music Box Playing]
[Crying]
I, uh, ordered this some time ago
for the children,
and, uh, it's a fine example
of scientifiic thinking,
as music is mathematical in nature.
Chords, constructed from notes
in intervals of thirds,
and so on, and so on.
Precisely.
I would like to know why,
if science can unravel something
as beautiful as music,
why it cannot posit a solution
for a school teacher and a king?
The manner in which people might understand
such new possibilities
is also process of evolution.
Everything in Siam has its own time.
Even if King is also wanting it to be different.
I still must go, Your Majesty.
So, where is it you will be going?
England.
Home.
This is good, Mem.
Very good for Louis as well.
What?
Am wondering if,
given circumstances,
it is appropriate
for King to ask...
Anna...
to dance?
I have danced with a king before, Your Majesty.
And l...
an Englishwoman.
Until now...
Madam Leonowens,
I did not understand supposition
man could be satisfied with only one woman.
I was only a boy,
but the image of my father
holding the woman he loved
for the last time
has remained with me throughout the years.
It is always surprising how small a part of life
is taken up by meaningful moments.
Most of them, they are over before they start,
although they cast a light on the future
and make the person who originated them unforgettable.
Anna had shined such a light on Siam.
Cannot touch
Cannot hold
Cannot be together
Cannot love
Cannot kiss
Cannot have each other
Must be strong
And we must let go
Cannot say
What our hearts must know
How can I not love you?
What do I tell my heart?
When do I not want you
Here in my arms?
How does one waltz away
From all of the memories?
How do I not miss you
When you are gone?
Cannot dream
Cannot share
Sweet and tender moments
Cannot feel
How we feel
Must pretend it's over
Must be brave
And we must go on
Must not say
What we've known all along
How can I not love you?
What do I tell my heart?
When do I not want you
Here in my arms?
How does one waltz away
From all of the memories?
How do I not miss you
When you are gone?
How can I not love you?
Must be brave
And we must be strong
Cannot say
What we've known all along
How can I not love you?
What do I tell my heart?
When do I not want you
Here in my arms?
How does one waltz away
From all of the memories?
How do I not miss you
When you are gone?
How can I not love you
When you are gone?
Subtitled by: Biot!