The King and the Mockingbird

First released in 1952 in a shortened version, then in 1979 in a longer version, re-edited by Paul Grimault, The King and the Mockingbird is a typical example of an independent production that eventually managed to make its mark by differentiating itself from the dominant Disney model. It tells the story of a shepherdess and a chimney sweep, who struggle to protect their love for each other, in the kingdom of Takicardia ruled by the tyrannical king Charles V + III = VIII + VIII = XVI. The screenplay was written with Jacques Prevert and was loosely based on a fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen. Greatly admired by all who have seen it, The King and the Mockingbird has had a big influence on Isao Takahata and Hayao Miyazaki, who both made reference to it in several of their own films.