Anna and the King of Siam is a beautiful 1946 black and white film about a British woman who must overcome her cultural differences with the King of Siam. The film is based on the true story of Anna Leonowens, a British woman who traversed land and sea to work with the King of Siam during the late 19th century. In 1862, Anna (Irene Dunne) and her son travel to Bangkok where they are employed to tutor the King's (Rex Harrison) children in western culture and language. Anna is convinced she is familiar with Siam ways, having read several books on Asian culture before leaving England. But after meeting the King she realizes she does not understand his culture, in fact, she is frequently offended by some of the King's gestures. The film is an adaptation of the book by Margaret Landon, which it follows closely, unlike the version made in 1999 starring Jodie Foster and Chow Yun-fat. Anna and the King of Siam is a magical story about two people who overcome their differences, despite their cultural barriers.moreless