A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court

As the US just experienced another solar eclipse, this week’s movie features perhaps the most famous use of an eclipse as a plot device.

When mechanic Hank Martin (Bing Crosby) is knocked unconscious during a storm, he’s transported to Camelot in the 6th century, under the reign of King Arthur. Soon finding himself in trouble, he realizes that he can use his modern mechanical knowledge to convince others he’s a powerful wizard not to be trifled with.

But his fake magical hijinks earn him the distrust of Merlin, who wants him gone. As if that weren’t enough, Hank makes another enemy in Lancelot when he falls in love with the beautiful woman betrothed to him. Hank will have to continue to use his modern know-how to outwit these foes, especially when it becomes clear that the kingdom itself is in danger.

Based on the famous Connecticut writer Mark Twain’s classic story, the film may perhaps be a bit dated and cheesy, but it offers a light-hearted family-friendly comedy adventure, with a dash of music (Bing Crosby’s gotta sing, of course). The film is not officially rated, but would likely be G.

Runtime: 1 hours, 46 minutes
Rated G
USCCB rating: A-I
IMDb Parents Guide
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