Grace Kelly was a hugely popular and talented actress, who gained even more affection from the public when she became the Princess of Monaco. MGM seized the opportunity to leverage Kelly’s real-life relationship with Prince Rainier by casting her as Princess Alexandra in the film The Swan. They even timed the movie’s release with her wedding date. The film’s costume designer, Helen Rose, also made her iconic wedding dress. This smart marketing move by MGM made The Swan a notable example of life imitating art.
Plot of The Swan
Princess Alexandra is the central hope for her family to regain their former royal status, many generations after losing their throne. Her mother, Princess Beatrice, is keen to marry her off to Crown Prince Albert, who is touring Europe in search of his future queen. When Prince Albert visits for a short stay, Beatrice tries everything to bring the two closer. However, Albert misinterprets Alexandra’s shyness as a lack of interest and decides to avoid her. In a desperate attempt, Beatrice persuades her daughter to publicly flirt with the family’s tutor to make Albert jealous. But things don’t go as planned and backfire in unexpected ways.
Origin of The Swan
You might think The Swan was written specifically for Grace Kelly, but it actually originated much earlier. It began as a play by Hungarian writer Ferenc Molnár, which gained popularity on Broadway in 1923. The story had also been adapted for the screen before, first in 1925 and again in 1930, with silent film star Lillian Gish in the 1930 version.
Grace Kelly as a Unique Princess
Even though I’ve seen Gish’s portrayal, it’s hard to imagine anyone else in the role besides Grace Kelly. She fully embodies Princess Alexandra, though not necessarily because the role is a natural fit for her. In fact, the character contrasts significantly from Kelly’s usual roles. Princess Alexandra shares Kelly’s beauty and regal demeanor but hides her sensitivity and insecurity behind a facade of extreme reserve. She carries the heavy burden of her family’s hopes, which grounds her emotions and desires. This inner struggle becomes evident when she faces Albert’s breaches of protocol.
Interestingly, it’s her interactions with the tutor, Professor Agi, that bring out her more human side. He treats her as an equal, challenging her to question her life’s path. This internal rebellion is what eventually draws Albert’s attention. Much like Princess Ann in Roman Holiday, Alexandra faces a difficult choice between love and duty.
Supporting Cast
Grace Kelly’s performance is bolstered by a stellar supporting cast. Alec Guinness makes his American film debut as Crown Prince Albert, long before his iconic role as Obi-Wan Kenobi. His quiet acts of rebellion against societal expectations are pivotal in helping Alexandra recognize her true self. Jessie Royce Landis plays the scheming mother, Princess Beatrice, echoing her previous role as Kelly’s mother in To Catch a Thief. Louis Jourdan convincingly portrays the affectionate Professor Agi. The humor is provided by Brian Aherne, who plays Beatrice’s brother turned priest, and Estelle Winwood, who plays the eccentric great-aunt. Agnes Moorehead also makes a notable appearance as Prince Albert’s domineering mother.
Conclusion
The Swan may seem like a typical princess story, but it offers a series of emotional and narrative surprises. Instead of showing wealthy royals as carefree and spoiled, it highlights how their privileged lives come with their own set of constraints. In some ways, the royals appear less free than their servants. The film portrays these revelations in a beautifully poignant manner that leaves a lasting impression. You might even view the real Princess Grace in a new light.
Fun Fact
Viewers might recognize the exterior of Alexandra’s family home since parts of the film were shot at The Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina.
Content Note: Suitable for family viewing.
Where to Watch: Available for rent or purchase on Amazon, VUDU, and iTunes. Also available on DVD.
Overall Rating: “You had me at hello.”
Romance Rating: “In vain have I struggled. It will not do. My feelings will not be repressed. You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you.”
