Exotic Phoebe Cates turns up in 1817 Devon and claims to be a Javanese princess.

Before you can say Martin Guerre, she turns out to be a fraud who's duped the highest in the land.

Sprightly period yarn, based (of course) on a true story, with nimble, accurately targeted performances by American import Cates and such British worthies as Jim Broadbent, Stephen Rea and John Wells.

It doesn't quite become the page-turner it aspires to be, but this spirited, attractive-looking film boasts its full share of entertainment value.