Soldier of fortune Victor McLaglen (as Michael Donovan) is unhappy being employed to watch over playboy Michael Whalen (as George Foster), who frequently gets into trouble with liquor and ladies. When asked by citizens of a small European country to abduct their king, Mr. McLaglen happily agrees. The usurpers don't want their royal ruler harmed during the revolution because he is young Freddie Bartholomew (as King Peter II). At a costume party for royal subjects, Mr. Whalen meets lovely Gloria Stuart (as Countess Sonia), and they are mutually attracted. McLaglen meets young Bartholomew, but balks at kidnapping a mere "kid"...Bartholomew finds the idea adventurous and insists on going along with the plan...This isn't the writer's usual setting, but Damon Runyon's "Gentlemen, the King!" feels right at home with McLaglen's presence and Bartholomew's "little king" expressing much fondness for Runyonesque America. The supporting cast is enriched by the presence of Constance Collier (as Lady Augusta) and C. Henry Gordon (as Gino) is an effective lead villain. The black-and-white cinematography by Rudolph Mate is noteworthy. He combines with director Tay Garnett for some striking moments, especially in the castle. Mr. Mate could have given us more footage of beautiful gypsy dancer Rita Hayworth, but he made up for it in her later films.****** Professional Soldier (12/27/35) Tay Garnett ~ Victor McLaglen, Freddie Bartholomew, Michael Whalen, Gloria Stuart

i just watched this film on the TCM "Summer Under The Stars" salute to Freddy Bartholomew, and it is worth watching. There is one very effective scene, where 11 year old Boy King Peter (Bartholomew) is being talked to by Prince Edric (Lester Matthews)and asked "Is a King willing to face death?" and Peter tells a story about what is father said "in the face of death, always remember you are a King." "I have never forgotten that." Beyond that, it is about the relationship between King Peter, and Michael Donovan (Victor McLaglen), an Irish-American mercenary from Chicago, who does whatever is necessary to protect Peter (Including risking his own life). The best part of the film is how both Peter and Michael conduct themselves with honor and dignity in the face of overwhelming odds. Spoilers ahead: The ending involves Peter naming Michael a General (Michael is dressed in full Marine Dress and they played the Marine Hymm as he walks away). There is also a love interest between Michael's assistant George Foster (Michael Whalan), and Countess Sonia (Gloria Stuart), where Michael (Who loves the ladies) will end up married to Sonia, and essentially be on a leash (Although he will not know it). When Sonia asked if he was staying, and George said "I am not a citizen of this country," Sonia said: "You will be, if you are married to me." (How often do you see the woman propose in a movie? Connie Allenbury (Myrna Loy) to Bill Chandler (William Powell) in "Libled Lady" might be about the only other time). That is the kind of strong woman Sonia was. I give the film 9/10 stars. I deduct a star for George, who is a bit of a weak character (Very much the opposite of Sonia, Peter and especially, Michael).

This is a terrific movie , especially for boys. It's about a boy king and an tough old Marine. It's an exciting adventure and better than the junk made today.I haven't seen this movie in years but I vividly remember it. I wish I had a copy of it to watch over and over. I think a lot of "Star Wars" was taken from this movie, although this movie takes place in the 1930's. The last scene in "Star Wars" sure looks like it was copied from 'Professional Soldier. Victor McGlaglen is believable because he was a tough adventurer in real life. McGlaglen once fought Jack Johnson and lost the decision. Today's actors appear to be little boys playing at being men. Wayne F. Wolter

Former real-life mercenary Victor McLaglen plays a professional soldier who is hired to kidnap a king, but he gets much more than he bargained for in Freddie Bartholomew. This isn't meant to be a heavyweight film, but it is humorous and sweet and the two main characters are truly enjoyable. I can't wait till I find a copy of my own.