I read the novel, and then tracked down the original books by Anna Leonowens. It’s been a while now, but the books seemed to focus on the evils of having a harem, and the tyranny of the king. There was certainly no romance (and Anna’s son did NOT die at a young age, as in the movie, either). And, of course, the books themselves are a subject of controversy, because the historical record seems to show that King Mongkut was actually a good king, not a tyrant at all. That Tuptim never existed. And did Leonowens ever actually teach in his harem? That’s also a subject of controversy, though I tend to think that she did.

So, basically, I watch the movies as fiction and enjoy them that way, because that’s what they are. 🙂 Hubby and I occasionally say “etcetera etcetera” just like Yul Brynner. 🙂 I keep wishing with every view that they would just kiss already. 🙂

i actually haven’t seen the older version, no. But I’ll definitely check it out. ITA agree about Yul. He is sexy in his volatile, commanding way. I love his performance.