Although the original tale by Hans Christian Andersen is rather light on plot, this episode of “Faerie Tale Theatre” manages to expand on the story and deliver a witty, entertaining adaptation blessed with remarkably ornate sets and costumes. With wit and sophistication, the show highlights the satirical elements of the tale, in particular the emperor’s vanity and arrogance, which ultimately makes a great (if incidental) send-up of the “greedy 80s.” Alan Arkin and Art Carney are terrific as Morty and Bo, but the whole episode belongs to Dick Shawn as the emperor – he tackles the material with aplomb and the end result is a charming, un-ironic performance.
Rating: ★★★ (out of 5)
