The Royal Bed (DVD)

Revolution erupts with comical results in Robert Emmet Sherwood's behind-the-throne satirical classic, The Royal Bed.

Hapless reigning monarch (actor-director Lowell Sherman) lets the Queen rule their small European nation, but when she takes off for a tour of the Americas, the King must fend for himself. Outside the palace gates, the poor rise up in revolution and demand justice or blood. Inside, the King's daughter, Princess Ann (Mary Astor) adds to his headaches by announcing her intentions to elope with her lover. Meanwhile her power hungry brother, the Prince (Hugh Trevor), urges his father to abdicate.

Witty and filled with charming slapstick humor, The Royal Bed is a comedy that explores the ordinary nature of the extraordinary.

• comedy