A sumptuously set new version of the 19th-century tale that spawned the classic musical, The King and I, about the young woman who became governess to the children of the King of Siam.

Exquisite performances from Jodie Foster (slightly hampered by her English accent), Bai Ling (as the beautiful young girl, Tuptim) and especially Chow Yun-Fat (as the King), previously known for action roles, ensure that this is well up to the standards of previous versions - and most of its more poignant moments squarely hit their targets.